Fuller Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in California's Nevada County, Fuller Lake is a private hydroelectric dam with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1856.


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Summary

With a dam height of 39 feet and a hydraulic height of 35.7 feet, Fuller Lake serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area. The dam has a storage capacity of 1,127 acre-feet and a surface area of 68.9 acres, providing essential water supply and flood control benefits.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Fuller Lake is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 15 feet to manage excess water flow. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring. With a drainage area of 0.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic feet per second, Fuller Lake plays a key role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts are drawn to Fuller Lake not only for its historical significance but also for its vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and communities. As a regulated structure with state jurisdiction, the dam undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure safety and efficiency. With its scenic location in the picturesque city of Washington, Fuller Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for a sustainable future.

Year Completed

1856

Dam Length

410

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

John Creek - Tributary

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

68.9

Hydraulic Height

35.7

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

1127

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

39
       
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.