Lower Sardine Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Sardine Lake, located in Sierra City, California, is a state-regulated water supply reservoir completed in 1965 with a primary purpose of providing water for various uses.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 9 feet, holds a storage capacity of 280 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 38 acres. The reservoir is fed by Sardine Creek and serves as a critical resource for both recreation and water supply in the region.

With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Lower Sardine Lake offers a safe and reliable water source for the surrounding community. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Water Resources and is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. Despite its modest size, the reservoir plays a significant role in managing water resources and supporting the ecological balance of the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Sardine Lake presents a fascinating case study of sustainable water management in California. As a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, the reservoir exemplifies the careful balance between water supply needs, recreational opportunities, and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing essential services while maintaining a low-risk profile underscores the importance of responsible dam construction and operation in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

162

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Sardine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

280

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
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.