Lightning W Ranch Dams

MUSGROVE CREEK· Washoe, Nevada· Earth· 12 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Lightning W Ranch Dams is classified as significant hazard in Nevada. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 17.5% in NV)
Dam Length100 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2 acre-ft
Normal Storage2 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge336 cfs
NID IDNV10417

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: August 25, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

THUNDER CANYON

Private

Nearby Dams

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Shenandoah Detention Basin Dam

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Mill Creek No 1 Dam

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Mill Creek Dam No 2

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Marlette Lake Dam

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Washoe Lake Dam

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Pagni Dam

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Carson City Golf Course Detention Basin Dam

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Significant Hazard 33 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lightning W Ranch Dams?

Lightning W Ranch Dams 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 Lightning W Ranch Dams?

Lightning W Ranch Dams is owned by THUNDER CANYON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Lightning W Ranch Dams?

Lightning W Ranch Dams 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 Lightning W Ranch Dams?

Lightning W Ranch Dams has a dam height of 12 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 Lightning W Ranch Dams last inspected?

Lightning W Ranch Dams was last inspected on August 25, 2021. 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.