Donovan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Donovan, also known as Donovan Reservoir, is a private water supply reservoir located in Modoc County, California.


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Summary

The dam was completed in 1953 and stands at a height of 28 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1234 acre-feet. The reservoir serves the primary purpose of irrigation and water supply, benefiting the surrounding agricultural community in the Pit River area.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Donovan Reservoir is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and inspection. The dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2017. With a drainage area of 35.2 square miles and a surface area of 207 acres, the reservoir plays a crucial role in water management in the region, supporting the needs of both human and environmental systems.

The location of Donovan Reservoir along Rye Grass Swale offers a vital source of water for the local ecosystem, while also serving as a key infrastructure for irrigation purposes. With its strategic position and historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Donovan Reservoir continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

2750

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Rye Grass Swale

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

207

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

35.2

Nid Storage

1234

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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