Anderson Cottonwood Reservoir Report

Nearby: Keswick Lema

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Anderson Cottonwood, also known as Redding Lake, is a public utility dam located in Shasta County, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1917, this buttress dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction and irrigation purposes along the Sacramento River. With a height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 1240 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 190 acres and has a drainage area of 6860 square miles.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources' Safety of Dams division, Anderson Cottonwood has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017. Despite its age, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the most recent one conducted in November 2020 to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its strategic location in Redding and its critical role in managing water resources in the region, Anderson Cottonwood remains a significant asset for flood control and irrigation needs in the area.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the San Francisco District, Anderson Cottonwood plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flood risks. With state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam is well-maintained and prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise. Its historical significance, combined with its continued functionality and efficiency, makes Anderson Cottonwood a vital resource for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of dams and reservoirs in California.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

455

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Sacramento Rever

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

6860

Nid Storage

1240

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.