The Tropicana North Branch Detention Basin Dam, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Tropicana Wash.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 2011, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18 feet, with a multi-arch core type and soil foundation. With a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 3006 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating the potential hazards posed by high-risk flood events in the area.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2021. With a moderate risk level of 3, the dam is regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational reliability. With an uncontrolled spillway type and one other controlled outlet gate, the dam is equipped to manage excess water flow during extreme weather events, safeguarding the surrounding communities and infrastructure from potential flood damage.
As a significant component of flood risk management in the region, the Tropicana North Branch Detention Basin Dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken by local government authorities to address the challenges posed by water resource management and climate variability. With its strategic location and design features, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting lives and property from the impacts of flooding, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure development in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
2011 |
Dam Length |
1244 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TROPICANA WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.6 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
| 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 Site C
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Group Campground C
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Group Campground B
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