Pleasant Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pleasant Valley, also known as Pleasant Valley Reservoir, is a vital water resource located in Bishop, Inyo County, California.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned by the local government, this hydroelectric facility on the Owens River serves multiple purposes, including water supply and hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1957, the Earth-type dam stands at a height of 87 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,825 acre-feet.

With a drainage area of 575 square miles and a surface area of 115 acres, Pleasant Valley plays a crucial role in water management in the region. The dam has a high hazard potential, but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017. Regular inspections and enforcement by the California Department of Water Resources ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for the surrounding community.

The dam's location in the Owens River watershed, under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, highlights its importance in managing water resources in California. Pleasant Valley Reservoir stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices, providing both essential water supply and clean energy to the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pleasant Valley serves as a prime example of effective dam infrastructure in meeting the diverse needs of a growing population while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

87

River Or Stream

Owens River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

115

Hydraulic Height

76

Drainage Area

575

Nid Storage

3825

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

87
       
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.