Culbertson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Culbertson Lake, located in Nevada County, California, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of hydroelectric generation.


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Summary

Completed in 1852, this historic structure stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 953 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 950 acre-feet. The dam spans 255 feet in length and covers a surface area of 70 acres, with a drainage area of 0.4 square miles.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Culbertson Lake boasts a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 23 feet wide and has a maximum discharge capacity of 165 cubic feet per second. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the dam has been inspected by state and federal agencies, with the last inspection conducted in August 2017. While the risk management measures and emergency action plan details are not specified, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is considered to be in compliance with safety standards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Culbertson Lake offers a glimpse into the historical development of hydroelectric infrastructure in California. With its unique design and operational features, this earth dam serves as a valuable resource for studying water management practices and the impact of dams on local ecosystems. As a regulated structure with state jurisdiction and oversight, Culbertson Lake represents a blend of traditional engineering principles and modern safety protocols, ensuring the continued sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1852

Dam Length

255

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Texas Creek - Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

953

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.