North Las Vegas Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The North Las Vegas Detention Basin Dam is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction in Nevada's Clark County.


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Summary

Owned by the local government, this earth dam spans 7,700 feet along the Las Vegas Wash, with a height of 38 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 2,430 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 13,200 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital defense against potential flooding in the region.

Located in North Las Vegas, this multi-arch dam is regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are managed effectively. With an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate, the North Las Vegas Detention Basin Dam plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events. As a key component of flood risk management, this dam showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Given its strategic location and importance in the local flood control infrastructure, the North Las Vegas Detention Basin Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to safeguard communities from the threats posed by natural disasters. With its moderate risk assessment rating and adherence to regulatory guidelines, this dam exemplifies the commitment to proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the North Las Vegas Detention Basin Dam serves as a compelling example of how infrastructure can mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and contribute to the overall resilience of a region.

Dam Length

7700

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

LAS VEGAS WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

2430

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.