Payne Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Payne is a privately owned dam located in Alturas, California, along the Tr Sfk Pit River.


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Summary

Built in 1928, this earth dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 6250 feet in length. With a capacity of 2850 acre-feet, Payne primarily serves the purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses in the region. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and satisfactory condition.

Despite its low hazard potential, Payne plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Modoc County. The dam's location in a remote area and its efficient design make it a reliable structure for water storage and distribution. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Payne stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resources and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Payne is essential for grasping the intricate balance between water supply, infrastructure resilience, and environmental impact. With a focus on enhancing water security and resource management, Payne exemplifies the role of infrastructure in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for water resources in California.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

6250

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Tr Sfk Pit River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

526

Hydraulic Height

8.3

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

2850

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds