Lake Buck Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wet Ravine Dam Sierra Sage Ponds Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lake Buck, located in Sierra County, California, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1951 primarily for flood risk reduction.
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Summary
With a height of 37 feet and a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, this dam on Long Valley Creek serves multiple purposes including irrigation and water supply. The dam spans 500 feet and covers a surface area of 9.4 acres, making it a vital resource for the local community in Border Town.
Maintained by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Lake Buck has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2017. The dam is inspected annually to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's importance lies in its role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Lake Buck to be a fascinating example of sustainable infrastructure in action.
Situated in a picturesque setting and overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Lake Buck stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and state agencies in managing water resources effectively. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the role of dams like Lake Buck in safeguarding communities and ecosystems becomes increasingly crucial. With its history of service since the 1950s, Lake Buck remains a vital asset for the region, embodying the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
Long Valley Cr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
12.5 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dog Creek At Verdi
|
1cfs |
Truckee River Nr Mogul
|
411cfs |
Hunter C Nr Reno
|
5cfs |
Truckee R At Reno
|
430cfs |
Truckee R A Farad Ca
|
400cfs |
Little Truckee R Ab Boca Res Nr Truckee Ca
|
41cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lookout Campground
|
||
Lookout
|
||
Dog Valley
|
Lake Buck
Stampede
Stampede Res Nr Boca Ca