Wetlands Enhancement Cell 3 4 5 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Wetlands Enhancement Cell 3 4 5 Dam, located in Carson City, Nevada, is a vital structure with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats, irrigation, recreational activities, and other purposes.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 8 feet, with a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a structural height of 10 feet. The dam's reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 1383.2 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 172.9 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 172.9 acres.

Constructed across the Carson River-OS, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 0.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, ensuring its fair condition and overall safety. The presence of an outlet gate and the absence of a spillway highlight the unique design features of this structure, contributing to its efficient operation and management.

As a key component of the local government's water infrastructure, the Wetlands Enhancement Cell 3 4 5 Dam serves as a valuable resource for enhancing biodiversity, supporting agricultural activities, and providing recreational opportunities. Its location in the Douglas County, Nevada, under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, showcases the collaborative efforts to manage and protect water resources in the region. With a risk assessment rating of High (2), ongoing risk management measures and regular inspections ensure the continued safety and functionality of this essential water resource structure.

Dam Length

4750

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

CARSON RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

172.9

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

1383.2

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.