Marble Bluff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Marble Bluff Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, is a Federal-owned structure designed by the USDI BOR with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a structural height of 52 feet. The dam, situated on the Truckee River, has a length of 1622 feet and a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2015, Marble Bluff Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting fish and wildlife habitats in the region. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and an outlet gate in the form of a Tainter (radial) gate. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years and is well-maintained to ensure its functionality and safety for the community.

As climate change impacts water resources and ecosystems, Marble Bluff Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water management and conservation efforts in the area. With its strategic location on the Truckee River and its role in supporting fish and wildlife populations, the dam serves as a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices and ecological preservation.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1622

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

TRUCKEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

1903

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

52

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

52
       
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.