Plum Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Plum Canyon, also known as Porter Reservoir, is a privately owned earth dam located in Alturas, California.


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Summary

Built in 1913, this dam serves primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet. Situated on Plum Creek, the dam stands at a height of 26 feet and is 270 feet long, covering a surface area of 30 acres in Modoc County.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams program, Plum Canyon Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2017. The dam has a hydraulic height of 22 feet and is inspected annually to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its historical significance and contribution to water management in the region, Plum Canyon Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a key feature in the San Francisco District's water infrastructure, Plum Canyon Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture and water supply needs in the area. With its long history of service and maintenance, this earth dam continues to provide essential water resources while adhering to state regulations and safety standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Plum Canyon offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in managing and protecting vital water sources.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Plum Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

184

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.