Kunkle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kunkle Reservoir, located in Butte, California, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1907, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and has a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. The reservoir is situated on the Tr W Br Feather River and is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and inspections.

With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, Kunkle Reservoir plays a crucial role in water supply and hydroelectricity in the region. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, and inspection, ensuring that it meets safety standards and environmental guidelines. The dam's last inspection was conducted in July 2020, with a regular inspection frequency in place to monitor its structural integrity and overall safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kunkle Reservoir offers a fascinating look into the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems. As a key infrastructure for both water supply and hydroelectric power, this dam serves as a critical component of the region's water management and energy production. With its historical significance dating back over a century and ongoing regulatory oversight, Kunkle Reservoir exemplifies the complex relationship between human development and environmental stewardship in ensuring sustainable water resource management.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

1040

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

Tr W Br Feather R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

44.9

Drainage Area

1.06

Nid Storage

155

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

54
       
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.