Ward Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ward Lake, located in Susanville, California, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and domestic use.


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Summary

Constructed in 1889, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 60 acres and is fed by the Tr Susan River, serving as a crucial water source for the surrounding area.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Ward Lake is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam provides reliable water storage while mitigating potential risks. Despite its age, Ward Lake continues to play a vital role in water resource management in Lassen County.

As a key component of the local water supply infrastructure, Ward Lake contributes to the sustainability of agricultural activities and community water needs in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this reservoir serves as an essential resource for water conservation and climate resilience efforts in the area.

Year Completed

1889

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Tr Susan River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

350

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.