Big Creek Dam No. 7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek Dam No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

7, also known as Redinger Lake, is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Madera, California. Built in 1951 by Morrison-Knudsen and Bechtel, this concrete gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 250 feet and has a storage capacity of 35,000 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, the dam plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy to the region.

Situated on the San Joaquin River, Big Creek Dam No. 7 is regulated by both state and federal agencies, including the California Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 160 feet, ensuring proper water management during periods of high discharge. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.

With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", the dam's emergency action plan is crucial for mitigating potential disasters and ensuring swift response in case of emergencies. The dam's structural design, combined with its strategic location and operational capabilities, make it an essential component of California's water resource management infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Creek Dam No. 7 represents a fascinating example of how human ingenuity and engineering can harness the power of nature for sustainable energy production and water management.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

875

Dam Height

250

River Or Stream

San Joaquin River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

464

Hydraulic Height

248

Drainage Area

1400

Nid Storage

35000

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

250
       
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.