Bidwell Bar Canyon Saddle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bidwell Bar Canyon Saddle, located in Oroville, California, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 3,540,000 acre-feet, it serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area. The dam is situated on the Feather River and is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Water Resources, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

The structure spans 2,270 feet in length and covers a surface area of 15,800 acres, with a drainage area of 3,611 acres. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Bidwell Bar Canyon Saddle is currently not available. Emergency action plans are in place, with the most recent revision dating back to December 2020. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as high, warranting close monitoring and management to mitigate any potential threats to downstream communities. Overall, Bidwell Bar Canyon Saddle stands as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, showcasing the importance of sustainable dam operations in safeguarding against floods and ensuring water security for all stakeholders involved.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

2270

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Feather River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15800

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

3611

Nid Storage

3540000

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

50
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.