Jackson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jackson Lake, located in Nevada County, California, is a vital water resource managed by a public utility.


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Summary

Constructed in 1943, the primary purpose of the dam is for irrigation, with additional functions including hydroelectric power generation and water supply. The dam stands at 22 feet in height, with a hydraulic height of 24.5 feet, and has a storage capacity of 1,330 acre-feet.

Owned and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Jackson Lake serves as a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, ensuring water availability for agricultural and residential needs. The dam's spillway, with a width of 50 feet, helps control water discharge during periods of high flow, contributing to the overall safety and sustainability of the reservoir. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.

With its picturesque location near Jackson Creek Campground, Jackson Lake not only provides essential water resources but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy its serene surroundings. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the management and maintenance of dams like Jackson Lake are crucial in ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the region.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

830

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Jackson Creek TR Canyon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

51

Hydraulic Height

24.5

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

1330

Structural Height

28.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

29
       
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.