Steamboat Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Steamboat Lake, located in Montague, California, is a state-regulated reservoir primarily used for water supply purposes, including irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this earth dam stands at 22 feet high and has a storage capacity of 2700 acre-feet. With a surface area of 304 acres and a drainage area of 1 square mile, Steamboat Lake plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Steamboat Lake is classified as having a significant hazard potential. The dam is inspected annually to ensure its safety and effectiveness. It is regulated by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams agency in California. With a spillway type unspecified, the dam's maximum discharge capacity is not specified, but its hydraulic height is 17 feet.

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for authorities to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. While details about the EAP for Steamboat Lake are not provided in the data, regular inspections and maintenance are essential to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of this vital water resource for the local community.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

655

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

Tr Lit Shasta R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

304

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

2700

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.