Big Creek Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek Dam No.


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Summary

3, also known as Huntington Lake No. 3, is a captivating structure nestled in the scenic city of Big Creek, California. Completed in 1913, this private dam stands at an impressive height of 165 feet and boasts a multi-arch concrete design, making it a significant landmark in the region. With a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, the dam also serves as a recreational area, offering visitors a chance to marvel at its grandeur while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Big Creek Dam No. 3 holds a maximum storage capacity of 89,800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,435 acres. It is situated on the Big Creek river and has a drainage area of 80.5 square miles. Despite its age, the dam remains a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure, providing essential services while posing a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being unavailable.

While the dam's last inspection was conducted in September 2020, its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has yet to be prepared, raising concerns about its readiness in the face of potential risks. With a risk assessment rating of high (2) and a hazard potential also categorized as high, there is a pressing need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding communities in the event of an emergency. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Big Creek Dam No. 3 to be a fascinating subject of study, showcasing the delicate balance between harnessing nature's power for human needs and safeguarding against potential risks and hazards.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

165

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1435

Hydraulic Height

165

Drainage Area

80.5

Nid Storage

89800

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

165
       
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.