Silva Flat Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Silva Flat, located in Bieber, California, is a privately owned reservoir on Juniper Creek that serves as a vital water supply for irrigation and domestic use.


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Summary

This Earth dam, constructed in 1926 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, stands at a height of 11 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,900 acre-feet. With a surface area of 815 acres and a drainage area of 15.5 square miles, Silva Flat plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and water resource management in the region.

The dam has been classified as having a significant hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in September 2017. The structure has a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a length of 1,250 feet, highlighting its importance in regulating water flow and storage. While details regarding spillways and outlet gates are not specified, Silva Flat's strategic location and design contribute to its effectiveness in meeting water supply needs and minimizing risks associated with potential emergencies.

Silva Flat's presence in Lassen County, California, underscores its importance in maintaining water security and supporting sustainable development in the region. As a regulated and inspected dam with a history dating back to the early 20th century, it stands as a testament to effective water management practices and the critical role of infrastructure in mitigating climate-related challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Silva Flat represents a tangible example of how human ingenuity and engineering can address pressing environmental concerns while ensuring the resilience of water supply systems for future generations.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

1250

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

Juniper Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

815

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

15.5

Nid Storage

3900

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

11
       
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.