Upper Blue Lake, located in Kirkwood, California, is a private hydroelectric dam that has been regulating the flow of Blue Creek since its completion in 1901. This Earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18.2 feet, with a structural height of 31 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 7,300 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 333 acres, serving as a vital water resource in Alpine County.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Upper Blue Lake is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway that is 51 feet wide and can discharge up to 1,400 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, but it undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once a year. The risk assessment for Upper Blue Lake is moderate, with certain risk management measures in place to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding area in case of emergencies.

With its historical significance as a hydroelectric facility and its role in water resource management, Upper Blue Lake serves as a key infrastructure in the region. Its regulation by state and federal agencies underscores its importance in climate and water resource management, providing a glimpse into the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in California's diverse landscape.