Buck Island Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buck Island Lake is a man-made reservoir located in the northern Sierra Nevada mountains in California, USA.


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Summary

It was created in the 1960s as part of the Buckhorn Hydroelectric Project, which was designed to generate electricity for Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E). The lake is fed by several creeks, including Buckhorn Creek and a diversion from the Middle Yuba River, and its water is used to generate hydroelectric power. The reservoir is also used for recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The surrounding area is primarily forested and there are no agricultural uses for the lake. Snowpack provides water for the lake during the winter months, and the lake serves as a source of water for downstream communities during the dry season. Buck Island Lake is an important source of hydroelectric power and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.11%
Percent of Normal 155%
Minimum 418.0 acre-ft
2021-01-08
Maximum 1,188.0 acre-ft
2021-10-24
Average 583 acre-ft
Nid_Height 25
Hydraulic_Height 19.5
Year_Completed 1963
Dam_Height 25
Structural_Height 25
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Surface_Area 78
Hazard_Potential Low
Nid_Storage 1070
River_Or_Stream Rockbound Creek
Dam_Length 244
       
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.