Lake Leavitt Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Leavitt is a privately owned water resource nestled in Lassen, California, near the charming city of Litchfield.


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Summary

Constructed in 1891, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans 8,800 feet in length, providing crucial irrigation and water supply functions. With a storage capacity of 7,482 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1,142 acres, Lake Leavitt plays a significant role in the local water supply infrastructure.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams division, Lake Leavitt is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's condition assessment reported it as satisfactory as of September 2017, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, Lake Leavitt continues to serve its primary purpose of water supply, showcasing the enduring resilience and importance of water resources in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Lake Leavitt's historical significance and its ongoing role in supporting agriculture and water needs in the area. As a vital part of the local water supply system, this earth dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water management and infrastructure in sustaining communities and ecosystems in California.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

8800

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Tr Susan River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1142

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

9.3

Nid Storage

7482

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.