Mccloud Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mccloud, also known as Mccloud Diversion, is a private water resource structure located in Redding, California along the McCloud River.


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Summary

This hydroelectric dam, completed in 1965, stands at a height of 255 feet and has a length of 630 feet. With a storage capacity of 35,234 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 50,000 cubic feet per second, Mccloud plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and generating hydroelectric power in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Mccloud is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. The dam's controlled spillway and Tainter gates help manage water levels and prevent flooding during peak discharge events. Despite its high hazard potential, Mccloud has not undergone a recent condition assessment, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Overall, Mccloud remains a significant infrastructure for water resource management and renewable energy production in California. Its strategic location and design contribute to the sustainable utilization of water resources while mitigating potential risks associated with dam operations. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the status and maintenance of structures like Mccloud to support responsible water management practices and ensure the long-term resilience of our water systems.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

255

River Or Stream

McCloud River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

520

Drainage Area

398

Nid Storage

35234

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

255
       
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.