Billy Shaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Billy Shaw Dam is a state-regulated structure located in Elko, Nevada, with a low hazard potential and a storage capacity of 3,300 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. While details about its construction year and purposes are not available, the dam stands at a height of 26 feet and serves as a key infrastructure for maintaining water supply and ensuring flood control in the area.

Situated within the Sacramento District, Billy Shaw Dam is owned by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and is subject to state inspection, enforcement, and permitting. With a normal storage capacity of 2,700 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital water management tool for the local community. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam's exact purpose and design details remain undisclosed, highlighting the need for further research and exploration for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding its full impact on the surrounding environment.

The condition assessment for Billy Shaw Dam is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a lack of recent data on its structural integrity and maintenance status. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is crucial for authorities to conduct regular inspections and ensure that emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks. As a key player in water resource management in Elko, Nevada, Billy Shaw Dam continues to be a focal point for stakeholders seeking to protect and optimize water resources in the region.

Dam Height

26

Nid Storage

3300

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.