Fish Barrier Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Fish Barrier in Marysville, California, is a crucial structure designed to regulate the flow of the Feather River and ensure water supply for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 61 feet and has a structural height of 91 feet. With a storage capacity of 580 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 80,000 cubic feet per second, the Fish Barrier plays a vital role in managing water resources in Butte County.

Managed by the State of California and regulated by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams, the Fish Barrier undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safe operation. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment indicate that it is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to surrounding areas. As a state-regulated structure, the Fish Barrier is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 600 feet wide, allowing excess water to flow safely downstream without causing harm to the environment or nearby communities.

Located in a strategic position within the Feather River watershed, the Fish Barrier serves as a key component of California's water infrastructure. With its primary purpose being water supply, this dam not only supports irrigation activities but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the region's water resources. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of structures like the Fish Barrier in ensuring the efficient management and conservation of water for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

61

River Or Stream

Feather River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

61

Drainage Area

3611

Nid Storage

580

Structural Height

91

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

91
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.