Virginia Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Virginia Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 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 | 11 ft (taller than 15.7% in NV) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 25 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2015 |
| NID ID | NV10596 |
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 RENO
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Virginia Lake Dam?
Virginia Lake 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 Virginia Lake Dam?
Virginia Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF RENO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Virginia Lake Dam built?
Virginia Lake Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Virginia Lake Dam?
Virginia Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Virginia Lake Dam?
Virginia Lake Dam has a dam height of 11 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 Virginia Lake Dam last inspected?
Virginia Lake Dam was last inspected on May 16, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.