Poe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Poe, a hydroelectric dam located in Butte, California, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with its concrete gravity structure towering 80 feet high.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, Poe harnesses the power of the North Fork Feather River to generate electricity, boasting a maximum storage capacity of 1204 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1150 acre-feet. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 243 feet, ensures efficient water management during periods of excess discharge.

Owned and regulated by private entities, Poe is subject to state oversight by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams program. Despite its low hazard potential, Poe has been designated as a site with very high risk, underscoring the importance of robust risk management measures. With six Tainter radial gates serving as its outlet, Poe plays a crucial role in providing reliable hydroelectric power to the region while maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's strategic location in Pulga, California, within the San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its significance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With a drainage area of 1942 square miles and a surface area of 53.3 acres, Poe not only contributes to renewable energy production but also serves as a critical component in the overall water infrastructure of the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricate details of Poe's design, operation, and maintenance offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

427

Dam Height

80

River Or Stream

North Fork Feather River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

53.3

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

1942

Nid Storage

1204

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

80
       
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.