Black Butte Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Black Butte is a volcanic peak located in the northern Sacramento Valley of California.


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Summary

The mountain rises to an elevation of 6,358 feet and is composed of volcanic rock. It has a long history of human use, with evidence of Native American settlements in the area dating back thousands of years. The hydrology of Black Butte is closely tied to the surrounding mountains and valleys, with surface flow from snowmelt and rainfall contributing to the region's agricultural and recreational uses. The mountain's snowpack is a key source of water for the region's farmers and ranchers, and its slopes provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Black Butte also has cultural significance, with its distinctive profile serving as a landmark for travelers and a source of inspiration for artists and writers.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.87%
Percent of Normal 326%
Minimum 1,067.0 acre-ft
2008-07-07
Maximum 132,242.0 acre-ft
2006-05-19
Average 31,469 acre-ft
Nid_Height 25
Hydraulic_Height 15
Primary_Dam_Type Gravity
Year_Completed 1989
Dam_Height 25
Surface_Area 9
Hazard_Potential Low
Nid_Storage 52
River_Or_Stream Stony Creek
Dam_Length 1464
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Top Conserv Storage Levels
Inflow Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.