Big Dobe North Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Dobe North, also known as Raker and Thomas, is a privately owned dam located in Modoc, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a storage capacity of 6530 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of water supply for irrigation. Situated on Tr Rattlesnake Creek in Big Sage Reservoir, the dam covers a surface area of 1600 acres and has a drainage area of 17 square miles.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition as per the last assessment in September 2017. It is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unspecified, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness in the event of any unforeseen emergencies.

With its historical significance dating back over a century, Big Dobe North serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in California's water supply network. Its location within the Sacramento District and oversight by state regulatory agencies highlight its importance in maintaining water security and irrigation needs for the surrounding communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Big Dobe North are crucial in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

365

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

Tr Rattlesnake Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1600

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

6530

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.