Walker Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Walker Lake, located in Lee Vining, California, is a vital water resource managed by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at 12 feet high and holding a storage capacity of 540 acre-feet, serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply. The dam overlooks Walker Creek and covers a surface area of 87 acres within Mono County.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Walker Lake is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and inspection purposes. The dam's last inspection took place in November 2019, with a scheduled frequency of once per year. While the dam does not pose a significant risk, it plays a crucial role in providing essential water resources to the surrounding area, ensuring a reliable supply for various needs.

This water supply infrastructure contributes to the sustainability of the region by managing water resources efficiently and effectively. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Walker Lake stands as a testament to responsible water management practices in California, benefiting both the local community and the environment. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of this dam in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Walker Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

87

Hydraulic Height

7.8

Drainage Area

6.2

Nid Storage

540

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.