Round Valley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Round Valley, also known as Snag Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Stirling City, California.


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Summary

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this earth dam was completed in 1877 for hydroelectric purposes along the West Branch Feather River. Standing at a height of 29.4 feet and with a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, Round Valley serves as a vital water resource in Butte County.

With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Round Valley requires regular inspections by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While its condition assessment is currently not available, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020. Despite its age, Round Valley continues to play a crucial role in water management and hydroelectric power generation in the region, highlighting the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in dam infrastructure.

As a key component of California's water infrastructure, Round Valley serves as a reminder of the importance of effective dam management and maintenance in the face of changing climate patterns. Its location in a high-risk area underscores the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard both the dam and surrounding communities from potential hazards. With its rich history and ongoing significance in water resource management, Round Valley exemplifies the intricate relationship between water resources, climate resilience, and infrastructure maintenance.

Year Completed

1877

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

29.4

River Or Stream

West Branch Feather River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

96.3

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.