Chimney Creek Dam

FOURMILE CREEK· Elko, Nevada· Built 1903· Earth· 22 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Chimney Creek Dam is classified as low hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 47.3% in NV)
Dam Length855 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage10.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage5.0K acre-ft
Surface Area500 acres
Drainage Area346 sq mi
Max Discharge400 cfs
Year Completed1903 (123 years old)
NID IDNV00039

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: July 24, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

NEVADA GOLD MINES LLC

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chimney Creek Dam?

Chimney Creek Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Chimney Creek Dam?

Chimney Creek Dam is owned by NEVADA GOLD MINES LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chimney Creek Dam built?

Chimney Creek Dam was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Chimney Creek Dam?

Chimney Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Chimney Creek Dam?

Chimney Creek Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Chimney Creek Dam last inspected?

Chimney Creek Dam was last inspected on July 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.