Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam
Key Takeaway
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 16 ft (taller than 29.2% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 3,852 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 625 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1993 (33 years old) |
| NID ID | NV10150 |
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
CITY OF NORTH LAS VEGAS
Local Government
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High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin 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 Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam is owned by CITY OF NORTH LAS VEGAS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam built?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam last inspected?
Carey/Lake Mead Detention Basin Dam was last inspected on April 30, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.