Carpenter Wilson Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Modoc, California, the Carpenter Wilson dam, also known as Wilson Reservoir, stands as a private entity designed for flood risk reduction along the Cooley Gulch river stream.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 21 feet and a length of 985 feet, offering a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet to mitigate potential flooding in the region. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
The dam's primary purpose extends beyond flood risk reduction to include irrigation and water supply for the surrounding area, emphasizing its vital role in managing water resources in Pit River. Situated within the San Francisco District, the Carpenter Wilson dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community against the adverse impacts of extreme weather events, reflecting its importance in the realm of climate resilience and water management. With a history of successful operations and a commitment to regulatory compliance, this dam stands as a testament to effective infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the intricacies of the Carpenter Wilson dam, they uncover a multifaceted structure that not only serves as a flood risk reduction measure but also supports irrigation and water supply needs in Modoc, California. With a focus on safety and regulatory oversight, this private-owned dam stands as a resilient infrastructure piece designed to withstand the challenges posed by a changing climate. From its modest height of 21 feet to its impressive storage capacity of 93 acre-feet, the Carpenter Wilson dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the region, making it a noteworthy asset in the broader context of sustainable infrastructure development.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
985 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
Cooley Gulch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
56cfs |
Sf Pit R Nr Likely Ca
|
7cfs |
Pit R Bl Pit No 1 Ph Nr Fall River Mills Ca
|
1470cfs |
Burney C A Burney Falls Nr Burney Ca
|
168cfs |
Hat C Nr Hat Creek Ca
|
141cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Howards Gulch
|
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Howard's Gulch Campground
|
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Upper Rush Creek
|
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Lower Rush Creek Campground
|
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Lower Rush Creek
|
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Cottonwood Flat
|
Carpenter Wilson