Barrett Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barrett, a gravity dam located in Barrett Junction, California, serves as a crucial water supply structure in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1922, this dam stands at a height of 161 feet and has a storage capacity of 44,755 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of September 2017, Barrett plays a vital role in the region's water resource management.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Barrett Dam ensures the safety and security of the surrounding community. The dam's primary purpose is to provide water supply, drawing from the Cottonwood Creek and covering a drainage area of 252 square miles. Despite its age, Barrett Dam continues to undergo regular inspections and enforcement measures to uphold its functionality and integrity.

With its historical significance and ongoing importance in water resource management, Barrett Dam stands as a testament to the enduring infrastructure that supports climate resilience in California. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the role and maintenance of structures like Barrett Dam is crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

161

River Or Stream

Cottonwood Cr

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

891

Hydraulic Height

151

Drainage Area

252

Nid Storage

44755

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

161
       
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.