Pulsipher Wash Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Mesquite, Nevada, the Pulsipher Wash Detention Basin Dam stands as a crucial structure designed by Stantec Consulting Inc.
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Summary
to mitigate flood risks along the Pulsipher Wash. Completed in 2008, this Earth-type dam reaches a height of 32 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, with a capacity to store up to 147 acre-feet of water. Embodying a multi-arch core design and employing rock and soil foundations, this dam plays a pivotal role in debris control and flood risk reduction for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Nevada Division of Water Resources, the Pulsipher Wash Detention Basin Dam boasts a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, last inspected in February 2022. Equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and two outlet gates, this dam can handle a maximum discharge of 14,000 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 2.3 square miles and a surface area of 11 acres, this dam serves as a vital component in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.
As a key feature in the flood risk reduction strategy for Clark County, Nevada, the Pulsipher Wash Detention Basin Dam plays a critical role in protecting the region from the impacts of severe weather events. With its strategic location along the Pulsipher Wash and robust design incorporating state-of-the-art engineering techniques, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
PULSIPHER WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
147 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Pulsipher Wash Detention Basin Dam
Virgin River