The new dam structure was constructed to replace an arch dam located 300 feet upstream of the new structure which had experienced severe concrete deterioration due to alkali-affregate reaction. the old dam was breached with a 6 foot diameter hole, at an invert elecation of 6139.0 feet, but the rest of the concrete structure was left in place.

the reservoir provides water for irrigation and stock raising. There are approximately 12,800 acres of land on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation, which is located 35 miles downstream of Wild Horse Dam.

The 12,800 acre irrigation project lies at the center of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation and is separated into two district units. Duck Valley Unit and the Pleasant Valley Unit. Both irrigate lands along with Owyhee River, but are separated from each other by a basalt restriction in the river channel called the "Narrows" The Duck Valley Unit lies upstream and to the south of the Narrows; the Pleasant Valley Unit lies downstream and to the North of the Narrows.

 The irrigable lands lie between 5,300 feet and 5,500 feet in elevation and the growing season is short and the winters are comparatively severe.

Ordinance of the Governing Body of the Dcuk Valley Shoshone Paiute Tribes

Ordinance Number 85-SPO-07

Be it enacted by the Business Council of the Shoshone Paiute Tribes That,

Whereas, the Business Council has determined that current proper procedures of Range Conservation and proper return from grazing privileges are pertinent to the welfare of the range and the enhancement of Tribal Governement.