Summary
Built in 1880, this dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses in the area. With a height of 20 feet and a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, Branham Flat plays a critical role in managing water resources in Lassen County.
Managed by a private owner, Branham Flat is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and compliance. The dam's hazard potential is assessed as low, with a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017. Despite its age, Branham Flat continues to provide reliable water storage and management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Branham Flat offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical development of water infrastructure in California. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, this Earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1880 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Branham Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
125 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.3 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sf Pit R Nr Likely Ca
|
9cfs |
Hat C Nr Hat Creek Ca
|
141cfs |
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
56cfs |
Pit R Bl Pit No 1 Ph Nr Fall River Mills Ca
|
1200cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
57cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
31cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Branham Flat