Bishop Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Bishop Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 80 ft (taller than 90.9% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 407 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 28.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 930 acres |
| Drainage Area | 69 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | NV00050 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
PACIFIC RECLAMATION COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bishop Creek Dam?
Bishop Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bishop Creek Dam?
Bishop Creek Dam is owned by PACIFIC RECLAMATION COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bishop Creek Dam built?
Bishop Creek Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bishop Creek Dam?
Bishop Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bishop Creek Dam?
Bishop Creek Dam has a dam height of 80 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bishop Creek Dam last inspected?
Bishop Creek Dam was last inspected on June 19, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.