General

The Truckee Storage Project was constructed to provide a supplemental supply of irrigation water to approximately 29,000 acres of land in the Truckee Meadows surrounding Reno and Sparks, Nevada. Boca Dam and Reservoir, the major feature of the Truckee Storage Project, was constructed by the United States and is operated by the Washoe County Water Conservation District.

History

Irrigation of lands in the Truckee Meadows began as early as 1858 with diversions from small streams. Settlement and irrigation of the valley progressed on an individual or community effort basis until there were 31 separate diversions in 20 miles along the Truckee River, beginning about 13 miles above Reno.

The demand for irrigation water in western Nevada after 1900 resulted in water appropriations in excess of summer flows of the river. Further development of the irrigable area of about 29,000 acres depended upon a supplemental storage supply. This necessity resulted in the construction of a small storage dam before 1920 by private parties at a location near the present dam.

Construction

Construction of Boca Dam began April 24, 1937, and was completed before the irrigation season of 1939.

Plan

Irrigation

Alfalfa, meadow hay, and pasture are the most important crops grown on the irrigated lands of the project in support of a thriving livestock and dairy industry. Next in importance are feed grains, followed by potatoes, onions and truck crops.

Recreation and Fish and Wildlife

Boca Reservoir provides public recreation facilities for camping, picnicking, boating, fishing and hunting, along with other recreational activities. The area is under administration of the U.S. Forest Service.

Overview

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Other

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