Indian Ole Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Ole, also known as Mountain Meadows Reservoir, is a privately-owned dam in Clear Creek, California.


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Summary

Built in 1924, this buttress-type structure stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 24,800 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for water supply, serving both hydroelectric and water supply needs in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Indian Ole plays a crucial role in providing water resources to the surrounding communities. With a satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. In case of emergencies, an emergency action plan (EAP) is in place to guide response and mitigate risks.

Situated on Hamilton Creek and surrounded by lush meadows, Indian Ole is a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Lassen County. Its historical significance and functional design make it a key component in the region's water supply infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of engineering, environment, and climate resilience in sustaining water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

264

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Hamilton Creek

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

5800

Hydraulic Height

22.6

Drainage Area

163.1

Nid Storage

24800

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.