Bucks Lake Storage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bucks Lake is a reservoir in Northern California that serves as a source of hydroelectric power and as a recreational destination.


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Summary

The lake was created in 1928 with the construction of a hydroelectric dam on Bucks Creek. The dam is operated by Pacific Gas and Electric and provides power for the surrounding communities. The lake is also fed by several small creeks and streams, as well as snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. The snowpack is monitored by the California Department of Water Resources and is an important source of water for agriculture in the area. Recreation activities on the lake include fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including trout and bass.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.19%
Percent of Normal 138%
Minimum 785.0 acre-ft
2011-04-28
Maximum 955,539.0 acre-ft
2016-07-30
Average 67,334 acre-ft
Dam_Height 123
Hydraulic_Height 96
Drainage_Area 28.6
Year_Completed 1928
Nid_Storage 105605
River_Or_Stream Brush Creek
Structural_Height 109
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 1852
Dam_Length 1320
Hazard_Potential High
Nid_Height 123
       
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.