Saddlebag Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saddlebag Lake, located in Lee Vining, California, is a stunning reservoir with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1921 by the Southern Sierras Power Co., this rockfill dam stands at a height of 45 feet and spans a length of 600 feet. With a storage capacity of 18,100 acre-feet, Saddlebag Lake provides not only essential electricity but also serves as a recreational spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Saddlebag Lake is subject to state regulatory oversight by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams division. The dam's spillway, with a width of 54 feet, is classified as uncontrolled, posing a high hazard potential. Despite this, the risk assessment for Saddlebag Lake is categorized as moderate (3), indicating a level of risk management in place to address potential hazards.

With its breathtaking location amidst the Sierra Nevada mountains and its vital role in both energy production and recreation, Saddlebag Lake is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its history, engineering design, and regulatory oversight make it a fascinating case study in the intersection of human infrastructure and natural beauty in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1921

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

Lee Vining Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

297

Nid Storage

18100

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

45
       
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.