Rye Patch Dam
Key Takeaway
Rye Patch Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1936 and is 90 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 73 ft (taller than 90.1% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 914 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 201.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 194.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12,144 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13,700 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 24,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1936 (90 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1996 |
| NID ID | NV10124 |
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
PERSHING COUNTY WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rye Patch Dam?
Rye Patch 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 Rye Patch Dam?
Rye Patch Dam is owned by PERSHING COUNTY WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rye Patch Dam built?
Rye Patch Dam was completed in 1936, making it 90 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 Rye Patch Dam?
Rye Patch Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Rye Patch Dam?
Rye Patch Dam has a dam height of 73 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 Rye Patch Dam last inspected?
Rye Patch Dam was last inspected on May 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.