Cresta Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cresta is a concrete gravity dam located in Pulga, California, along the North Fork Feather River.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this hydroelectric structure stands at 113 feet tall and spans 378 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4,140 acre-feet. Managed by a private entity, Cresta is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a maximum discharge of 211,000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway width of 271 feet, Cresta plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation in the region. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment has been classified as very high, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures. The dam is a key piece of infrastructure for the state, serving as a major component of the water supply system and contributing to the overall climate resilience of the area.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

378

Dam Height

113

River Or Stream

North Fork Feather River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

62

Drainage Area

1880

Nid Storage

4140

Outlet Gates

Drum - 2, Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

113
       
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.