Jerritt Canyon Water Storage Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Ryndon, Nevada, the Jerritt Canyon Water Storage Reservoir Dam is a private-owned structure designed by SRK Consulting to primarily address flood risk reduction along the Foreman Creek-OS.


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Summary

Completed in 2012, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 69 feet and has a hydraulic height of 65 feet. With a storage capacity of 1423 acre-feet, it serves multiple purposes including debris control, fire protection, and creating a stock or small fish pond in addition to flood risk reduction.

The dam boasts a structural height of 66 feet and a length of 6729 feet, covering a surface area of 60.5 acres and draining a small area of 0.1 square miles. The spillway, with a width of 30 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 600 cubic feet per second. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2019 and low hazard potential, the dam is subject to inspection every five years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the Jerritt Canyon Water Storage Reservoir Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in this region.

Managed by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, this impressive structure contributes to the overall water infrastructure in Elko County, Nevada, providing essential flood protection and storage capabilities for the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Jerritt Canyon Water Storage Reservoir Dam become increasingly vital in ensuring sustainable water management and resilience against extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2012

Dam Length

6729

Dam Height

69

River Or Stream

FOREMAN CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60.5

Hydraulic Height

65

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

1423

Structural Height

66

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

69
       
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.