Hunters Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hunters Dam, located in Calaveras County, California, is a key hydroelectric infrastructure managed by a public utility.


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Summary

Constructed in 1927, this concrete dam stands at a height of 59 feet and has a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet with a maximum discharge rate of 3000 cubic feet per second. The dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, harnessing the water resources of Mill Creek.

Despite its age, Hunters Dam remains regulated and inspected by both state and federal agencies, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with safety standards. The dam is equipped with two slide gates for water release and a controlled spillway, indicating readiness for managing high-risk potential and emergency situations. With a risk assessment rating of very high, the dam's risk management measures and safety protocols are continuously monitored and updated, reflecting a commitment to safeguarding water resources and the surrounding communities.

The strategic location of Hunters Dam in Arnold, California, within the San Francisco District, highlights its significance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. As a crucial piece of hydroelectric infrastructure, the dam plays a vital role in balancing water supply, power generation, and environmental conservation. Its historical legacy and ongoing regulatory oversight underscore the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

59

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

299

Drainage Area

11.7

Nid Storage

260

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

59
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.