Located in Shasta, California, Pit No. 5 Open Conduit is a privately owned hydroelectric structure on the Pit River. Completed in 1944, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 71 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 4000 cubic feet per second, the dam covers a surface area of 48 acres and serves a drainage area of 4.3 square miles.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Pit No. 5 Open Conduit is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with operational standards. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 59 feet. Despite its age, the structure continues to play a vital role in generating hydroelectric power in the region, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources for sustainable energy production.

The dam's location in Big Bend, California, underscores its significance in the local ecosystem and economy. As part of the broader network of hydroelectric facilities on the Pit River, Pit No. 5 Open Conduit demonstrates the interconnectedness of water resources and climate considerations in the management of infrastructure for renewable energy production. With ongoing inspections and risk assessments, the dam serves as a pivotal example of balancing energy needs with environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.