Big Pine Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Pine Creek, also known as Big Pine Lake, is a vital water resource located in Inyo, California.


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Summary

The dam on Big Pine Creek is owned by the local government and is regulated by the Department of Water Resources for safety. With a primary purpose of water supply, the dam serves multiple functions including hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. The rockfill dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 1071 acre-feet, providing valuable water resources for the surrounding area.

This dam on Big Pine Creek has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2017. Regular inspections ensure its safety, with the last inspection conducted in September 2019. The dam's Emergency Action Plan is up to date, meeting guidelines for emergency preparedness. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam on Big Pine Creek continues to provide essential water resources for the region while maintaining a satisfactory condition.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be fascinated by the infrastructure and operations of the Big Pine Creek dam. Its role in water supply, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation highlights the importance of responsible water management in California. The dam's location in the picturesque city of Big Pine adds to its allure, making it a significant landmark for those interested in water resource management and environmental sustainability in the region.

Dam Length

50

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

Big Pine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

7.5

Nid Storage

1071

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.