Preston Lower Dam

WHITE RIVER-TR· White Pine, Nevada· Built 1932· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Fire Protection Stock Or Small Fish Pond Private

Key Takeaway

Preston Lower Dam is classified as significant hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1932 and is 94 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 61.8% in NV)
Dam Length2,050 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage250 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area24 acres
Drainage Area10 sq mi
Max Discharge1,300 cfs
Year Completed1932 (94 years old)
NID IDNV10552

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: April 28, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

PRESTON IRRIGATION COMPANY

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Preston Lower Dam?

Preston Lower 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 Preston Lower Dam?

Preston Lower Dam is owned by PRESTON IRRIGATION COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Preston Lower Dam built?

Preston Lower Dam was completed in 1932, making it 94 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 Preston Lower Dam?

Preston Lower 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 Preston Lower Dam?

Preston Lower Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Preston Lower Dam last inspected?

Preston Lower Dam was last inspected on April 28, 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.