Rainbow Detention Basin Dam

LAS VEGAS WASH-TR· Clark, Nevada· Built 2002· Earth· 41 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam is classified as significant hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 2002 and is 24 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 41 ft (taller than 74.6% in NV)
Dam Length1,000 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage134 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area27 sq mi
Max Discharge1,763 cfs
Year Completed2002 (24 years old)
NID IDNV10730

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: March 5, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

CITY OF LAS VEGAS

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rainbow Detention Basin Dam?

Rainbow Detention Basin 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 Rainbow Detention Basin Dam?

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam is owned by CITY OF LAS VEGAS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rainbow Detention Basin Dam built?

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam was completed in 2002, making it 24 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 Rainbow Detention Basin Dam?

Rainbow 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 Rainbow Detention Basin Dam?

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Rainbow Detention Basin Dam last inspected?

Rainbow Detention Basin Dam was last inspected on March 5, 2020. 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.