Chimney Dam

LITTLE HUMBOLDT RIVER· Humboldt, Nevada· Built 1974· Earth· 72 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Chimney Dam is classified as significant hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 72 ft (taller than 89.9% in NV)
Dam Length1,110 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage66.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage35.0K acre-ft
Surface Area2,080 acres
Drainage Area736 sq mi
Max Discharge5,180 cfs
Year Completed1974 (52 years old)
NID IDNV01151

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 27, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

NEVADA FIRST CORPORATION;NFC LAND & CATTLE LLC

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chimney Dam?

Chimney Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Chimney Dam?

Chimney Dam is owned by NEVADA FIRST CORPORATION;NFC LAND & CATTLE LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chimney Dam built?

Chimney Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Dam?

Chimney Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Chimney Dam?

Chimney Dam has a dam height of 72 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 Dam last inspected?

Chimney Dam was last inspected on July 27, 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.