Rancho Detention Basin Dam
Key Takeaway
Rancho Detention Basin Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 2008 and is 18 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 27 ft (taller than 57.1% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 323 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,160 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2008 (18 years old) |
| NID ID | NV10639 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF LAS VEGAS
Local Government
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High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rancho Detention Basin Dam?
Rancho Detention Basin Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Rancho Detention Basin Dam?
Rancho 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 Rancho Detention Basin Dam built?
Rancho Detention Basin Dam was completed in 2008, making it 18 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 Rancho Detention Basin Dam?
Rancho 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 Rancho Detention Basin Dam?
Rancho Detention Basin Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Rancho Detention Basin Dam last inspected?
Rancho Detention Basin Dam was last inspected on April 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.