Hat Creek No. 2 Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hat Creek No.


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Summary

2 Diversion is a privately owned hydroelectric facility located in Big Bend, California, along the Hat Creek river. The dam, completed in 1943, stands at 29 feet high and has a storage capacity of 629 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 1490 cubic feet per second, this concrete gravity dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Hat Creek No. 2 Diversion is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its safety and compliance with environmental standards. Despite its low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this structure is classified as very high, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures. The Emergency Action Plan for the dam was last revised in October 2020, indicating a commitment to preparedness and safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hat Creek No. 2 Diversion serves as a fascinating example of sustainable energy generation and water storage in California. Its role in providing hydroelectric power and regulating water flow in the Hat Creek river underscores the importance of responsible infrastructure management in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Hat Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

89

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

586

Nid Storage

629

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.