Kramer Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kramer Reservoir, located in Nubieber, California, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1937 to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

With a dam height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet, the reservoir serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and water supply. It is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Situated on Widow Valley Creek, Kramer Reservoir covers a surface area of 20 acres and has a drainage area of 27.7 square miles. Despite being categorized as having low hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017. The reservoir has a well-documented history of maintenance and oversight, with the most recent inspection taking place in September 2020 to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.

Managed by private owners, Kramer Reservoir plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in Lassen County, California. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall resilience of the area against potential natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and operational details of reservoirs like Kramer is vital for promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the long-term protection of our valuable water resources.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Widow Valley Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

27.7

Nid Storage

118

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.