What is the TCID District General Assessment on my Tax Bill?

If you own property within the boundaries of the Truckee-Carson Irrigation District you are charged a small assessment to support the operational costs of the District.  This assessment is adjusted on July 1 every year based on changes in the Consumer Price Index.    

Nevada law under NRS 539.480(8) allows irrigation districts to assess all lands within their boundaries—not just those currently receiving irrigation water.

Why are All Properties Assessed Even Though They Don’t All Receive Water?

The movement and distribution of irrigation water from Derby Dam to Lahontan Reservoir, from Diversion Dam to Stillwater Wildlife Refuge, impacts and benefits all who live in those areas.  Our communities would be starkly different without this water.  Thus, all who receive those benefits are asked to contribute a small sum to TCID to offset the costs of preserving that precious resource.   Here are just a few examples of those benefits. 

·         Groundwater Recharge:

The groundwater recharge created by unlined canals and ditches is vital to the sustainability of all communities located within district boundaries.  Whether you own a private well or receive water from a local water utility, those wells draw upon water from the aquifer that is recharged every year by irrigation water. 

·         Recreation:

Lahontan Reservoir, a popular recreation area for boating, camping, and fishing, serves the entire community – not just the water users.  TCID is responsible for operating and maintaining Lahontan Dam at a significant cost.  Local assessments provide for a more equitable apportionment of those costs among all who enjoy this beautiful feature. 

·         Environmental Benefits:

TCID’s infrastructure plays a key role in environmental conservation. The District supports wetland habitats essential for wildlife, including migratory birds, and offers recreational opportunities such as birdwatching and waterfowl hunting.

·         Flood Protection:

The high-water years of 2017 and 2023 serve as a vivid reminder of how important TCID’s infrastructure is to the local community.  During those years, every canal and distribution channel was used to spread the flood waters out and around the populated areas of Churchill County, preventing catastrophic flooding.  This infrastructure must be maintained to preserve that benefit for the community.