Rancho Detention Basin Dam, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, was completed in 2008 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Las Vegas Wash-TR river or stream.
Wind
Humidity
Owned and regulated by local government authorities with oversight from the Nevada Department of Water Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 323 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 18,160 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region.
This multi-arch dam spans 550 feet in length and covers a surface area of 20 acres, serving as a vital infrastructure in mitigating flood hazards in the area. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential due to its location, the dam's condition assessment as of May 2021 was deemed fair. With one uncontrolled outlet gate and a spillway width matching the dam length, Rancho Detention Basin Dam is equipped to handle significant water volumes during peak flow events. Regular inspections and enforcement measures ensure the dam's operational readiness and reliability in safeguarding the surrounding community.
As a critical component of the flood risk reduction strategy in Clark County, Nevada, Rancho Detention Basin Dam remains a key infrastructure asset in protecting the city of Las Vegas from potential water-related disasters. With state-mandated permitting and inspection protocols in place, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards and contribute to the overall resilience of the region's water resource management system. As climate change impacts intensify, the role of such structures in maintaining water security and disaster preparedness becomes increasingly vital for sustainable development and community safety.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
LAS VEGAS WASH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
6.1 |
Nid Storage |
323 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Group Site E
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Group Campground D and E
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Group Site D
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Group Campground B
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Group Campground C
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Group Site C
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