Slate Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Slate Creek in California is a captivating water resource for hydroelectric power, irrigation, and water supply.


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Summary

Constructed in 1961, this concrete dam stands at a height of 68 feet, with a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a structural height of 70 feet. Located in Plumas County, the dam has a storage capacity of 643 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 49.4 square miles. With a maximum discharge of 35,000 cubic feet per second, Slate Creek Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Slate Creek Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition. Although the condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans and risk management measures are in place to address any potential incidents. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 212 feet, providing a vital safety feature in case of excess water flow.

Slate Creek Dam's primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation contributes to the sustainable development of the region's energy resources. With its strategic location and design by Bechtel, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management and electricity production in Plumas County. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricacies of Slate Creek Dam's operations and regulatory oversight offer a fascinating insight into the intersection of engineering, environmental protection, and resource management.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

258

Dam Height

68

River Or Stream

Slate Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

49.4

Nid Storage

643

Structural Height

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

70
       
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.