Big Creek Dam No. 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek Dam No.


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Summary

5, located in Fresno, California, is a privately owned concrete dam that was completed in 1921 by the Southern California Edison Co. The dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and stands at a height of 60 feet with a hydraulic height of 49 feet. It has a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and a drainage area of 125 square miles, making it a significant water resource for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Big Creek Dam No. 5 is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and a maximum discharge capacity of 15,000 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a "Significant" hazard potential, its risk assessment is rated as "Moderate (3)", indicating that appropriate risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential hazards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of Big Creek Dam No. 5. Its location on the Big Creek river, its hydroelectric capabilities, and its role in water storage and management make it a vital piece of infrastructure in the region. The dam's design, construction, and operational details reflect a commitment to sustainable water resource management and highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures for the benefit of both the environment and the community.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

224

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3.3

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

125

Nid Storage

74

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

60
       
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.