Ridgewood Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ridgewood, also known as Walker Lake, is a private water supply dam located in Mendocino County, California.


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Summary

Built in 1929, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 185 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Ridgewood is to provide irrigation and water supply for the surrounding area, with Forsythe Creek serving as the primary source of water for the reservoir.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Ridgewood has been deemed to have a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2019. With a drainage area of 5.7 square miles and a surface area of 32 acres, Ridgewood plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Located in the city of Calpella, Ridgewood is an integral part of the water infrastructure in the area, ensuring a reliable water supply for irrigation and domestic use. With its history dating back almost a century, this dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while being monitored for safety and compliance with regulatory standards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ridgewood stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

Forsythe Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

5.7

Nid Storage

185

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

44
       
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.