Paradise Reservoir Report
Nearby: De Sabla Forebay Magalia
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Paradise is a vital Earth-type dam located in Magalia, California, along the Little Butte Creek, providing essential water supply for irrigation and domestic use.
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Summary
Completed in 1957, this public utility structure stands at a towering height of 175 feet, with a hydraulic height of 161 feet, and a storage capacity of 11,500 acre-feet. With a surface area of 244 acres and draining an area of 8.66 square miles, Paradise plays a crucial role in water resource management in Butte County.
Managed and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Paradise has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017. In case of emergencies, contingency plans are in place, although specific details about Emergency Action Plans (EAP) and risk management measures are not provided in the data. The dam's impact on the surrounding area and its risk assessment are crucial factors for water resource and climate enthusiasts to consider.
Overall, Paradise serves as a significant infrastructure for water supply in California, highlighting the importance of dam safety and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. As a key element in the state's water management system, Paradise stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to ensure the reliability and safety of water resources in the region. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can find valuable insights in the data provided about Paradise, shedding light on the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1720 |
Dam Height |
175 |
River Or Stream |
Little Butte Cr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
244 |
Hydraulic Height |
161 |
Drainage Area |
8.66 |
Nid Storage |
11500 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
175 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
124cfs |
Deer C Nr Vina Ca
|
113cfs |
Mill C Nr Los Molinos Ca
|
143cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
27cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
54cfs |
N Yuba R Bl Goodyears Bar Ca
|
151cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Paradise
Butte Creek
Poe Dam To Highway 70 Crossing
Cresta Dam To Poe Reservoir (Camp Creek)
Big Chico Creek