Bishop Creek Intake No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bishop Creek Intake No.


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Summary

2, located in Bishop, California, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility that was completed in 1908. The dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, serving multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. The facility is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and has a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

The dam, situated on the Middle Fork Bishop Creek, is classified as an earth dam with a length of 443 feet and a spillway width of 40 feet. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the operations and inspections of Bishop Creek Intake No. 2, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and regulations. Despite its age, the facility has not undergone recent condition assessments, but emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks associated with the dam.

With its historical significance and vital role in providing clean energy and recreational opportunities, Bishop Creek Intake No. 2 serves as a key water resource infrastructure in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and management, facilities like this will play a crucial role in sustainable water resource management and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

443

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Middle Fork Bishop Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Drainage Area

32

Nid Storage

115

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.