Rainbow Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Las Vegas Wash-TR.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36 feet, with a structural height of 6 feet. The dam spans a length of 1000 feet and has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet, making it an essential component in managing stormwater in the region.

With a significant hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of March 2020, Rainbow Detention Basin Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam boasts an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 138 feet, allowing for the release of excess water during times of heavy rainfall. Additionally, the dam is equipped with one other controlled outlet gate for efficient water management.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Rainbow Detention Basin Dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events. This state-regulated structure, monitored by the Nevada DWR, serves as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

LAS VEGAS WASH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.6

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

27

Nid Storage

134

Structural Height

6

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.