Cortez Hills Dam Fresh Water Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

The Cortez Hills Dam Fresh Water Reservoir in Nevada stands as a testament to innovative water resource management, completed in 2009 with a capacity of 64 acre-feet for water storage.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, with a height of 50 feet and a structural height of 50 feet, serves multiple purposes including water supply. Located in Lander County, Nevada, this reservoir covers a surface area of 4.7 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 56 acre-feet.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Cortez Hills Dam Fresh Water Reservoir is maintained and regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one other controlled outlet gate for efficient water management. Despite being a private-owned structure, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure safety and compliance with guidelines. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the strategic design and functionality of this reservoir in managing water resources effectively in the region.

Year Completed

2009

Dam Length

1968

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.7

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.