Pit No. 5 Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Big Bend, California, the Pit No.


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Summary

5 Diversion is a significant hydroelectric structure that has been operational since 1944. With a concrete gravity dam standing at a height of 58 feet and a hydraulic height of 38 feet, this structure plays a crucial role in the management of water resources in the region. It has a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 132,000 cubic feet per second, ensuring a reliable source of hydroelectric power.

Managed by a private entity, the Pit No. 5 Diversion is regulated by both state and federal agencies, including the California Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a controlled spillway and slide gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam is classified as very high, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure safety and operational efficiency.

With its strategic location on the Pit River and close oversight from regulatory authorities, the Pit No. 5 Diversion stands as a vital component of California's water infrastructure. As a concrete gravity dam with a history of reliable performance, it continues to play a key role in water resource management and renewable energy production in the region.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

Pit River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

32

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

4610

Nid Storage

330

Structural Height

58

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

58
       
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.