Lower Lindsey Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Lindsey is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located on Lindsey Creek in Nevada County, California.


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Summary

Built in 1870, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet, with a length of 487 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 240 cubic feet per second, serving as a source of renewable energy in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lower Lindsey has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 42 feet and is regulated by the Department of Water Resources for safety and inspection. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans have been prepared to meet guidelines in case of unforeseen events.

As a vital piece of infrastructure in the area, Lower Lindsey plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its historical significance and contribution to the region's energy needs, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water for the benefit of communities and ecosystems alike.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

487

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Lindsey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.