Pit No. 3 Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pit No.


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Summary

3 Diversion, located in Big Bend, California, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility on the Pit River. Completed in 1925, this concrete dam stands at a height of 135 feet and has a storage capacity of 41,907 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 70,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pit No. 3 Diversion has a controlled spillway width of 254 feet and is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement. The dam is considered to have a high hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, this vital infrastructure continues to provide clean energy and water supply for the surrounding communities while adhering to strict regulatory standards to ensure public safety and environmental protection.

With its historical significance and critical role in the local ecosystem, Pit No. 3 Diversion serves as a prime example of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the careful monitoring and maintenance of dams like Pit No. 3 are essential for ensuring reliable access to water and energy for future generations.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

494

Dam Height

135

River Or Stream

Pit River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1293

Hydraulic Height

108

Drainage Area

4606

Nid Storage

41907

Structural Height

135

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

135
       
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.