Big Creek Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek Dam No.


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Summary

2, also known as Huntington Lake No. 2, is a private dam located in Fresno, California, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. Built in 1917, this concrete dam stands at a height of 120 feet and spans a length of 1862 feet, providing a storage capacity of 89,800 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1435 acres. The dam is situated on Big Creek, part of the Sacramento District, and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a high hazard potential, Big Creek Dam No. 2 is a critical structure that requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam does not have a spillway, making its risk level higher in case of a potential emergency situation. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.

As a significant contributor to the region's water resource and energy infrastructure, Big Creek Dam No. 2 plays a vital role in providing hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a testament to the engineering achievements of its time while emphasizing the importance of modern safety standards and risk management practices in the face of evolving climatic challenges and water resource management needs.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

1862

Dam Height

120

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1435

Hydraulic Height

120

Drainage Area

80.5

Nid Storage

89800

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

120
       
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.