Washoe Lake Dam

STEAMBOAT CREEK· Washoe, Nevada· Masonry· 12 ft tall

High Hazard Irrigation Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Washoe Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Nevada. 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	12 ft (taller than 17.5% in NV)
Dam Length	30 ft
Dam Type	Masonry
Max Storage	400 acre-ft
Normal Storage	300 acre-ft

Surface Area	45 acres
Drainage Area	84 sq mi
Max Discharge	200 cfs
NID ID	NV10472

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: July 18, 2023

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: NEVADA DWR

Ownership

WASHOE LK RES & GALENA CK DITCH CO

Private

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Hidden Lake Dam

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Lightning W Ranch Dams

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Damonte Ranch Flood Control Diversion Dam

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Damonte Ranch Flood Detention Basin Dam

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Damonte Ranch Wetlands Detention Basin Dam

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Damonte Ranch Dam Detention Pond #4

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Shenandoah Detention Basin Dam

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Washoe Lake Dam?

Washoe 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 Washoe Lake Dam?

Washoe Lake Dam is owned by WASHOE LK RES & GALENA CK DITCH CO (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Washoe Lake Dam?

Washoe Lake 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 Washoe Lake Dam?

Washoe Lake Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Washoe Lake Dam last inspected?

Washoe Lake Dam was last inspected on July 18, 2023. 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.