Blue Lake, located in Nevada County, California, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1856 for hydroelectric purposes. With a structural height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, this dam on Rucker Creek serves as a vital source of water and power generation in the region. The dam has a spillway width of 12 feet and a maximum discharge of 253 cfs, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Blue Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections and enforcement ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of the dam. Additionally, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks and ensure the safety of nearby communities in the event of a dam failure.

Blue Lake Dam, with its historical significance and important role in water resource management, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of its time. As climate change continues to impact water availability and infrastructure resilience, the preservation and maintenance of dams like Blue Lake are crucial for sustainable water management and adaptation to changing climate conditions in the region.