Wild Horse Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Wild Horse is a concrete dam located in Elko, Nevada, along the East Fork Owyhee River.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the USDI BOR, the dam stands at 116 feet tall with a length of 458 feet, providing flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. The reservoir created by Wild Horse has a storage capacity of 95,235 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 72,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,035 acres.

Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Wild Horse serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 75 feet and two outlet gates for water release. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Wild Horse undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

Wild Horse not only plays a crucial role in managing water resources but also provides recreational opportunities for the local community. As a key structure in the Sacramento District, the dam's impact on the surrounding environment and its ability to withstand potential hazards are closely monitored to ensure the safety and well-being of all those who rely on its services.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

458

Dam Height

101

River Or Stream

EAST FORK OWYHEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3035

Hydraulic Height

90

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

95235

Structural Height

116

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

116
       
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.