Rye Grass Swale Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rye Grass Swale, also known as Graves Reservoir, is a private water resource located in Modoc, California.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 1923 and stands at a height of 20 feet with a storage capacity of 530 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses in the surrounding area, with a satisfactory condition assessment and low hazard potential.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Rye Grass Swale plays a crucial role in ensuring the water security of the region. With a drainage area of 14 square miles and a surface area of 120 acres, this reservoir on Tr Canyon Creek in Calpine provides essential water storage for the community. Its last inspection in June 2020 indicated a satisfactory condition, highlighting its importance in the local water infrastructure.

With its strategic location and historical significance, Rye Grass Swale continues to be a vital resource for water management in California. Its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition make it a reliable asset for water supply, irrigation, and other purposes. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Rye Grass Swale play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Tr Canyon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

120

Hydraulic Height

13.4

Drainage Area

14

Nid Storage

530

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.