Scott Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scott Lake, located in Alpine County, California, is a private earth dam built in 1926 primarily for water supply purposes, including irrigation.


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Summary

With a dam height of 35 feet and a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet, the reservoir covers an area of 30 acres and is fed by the Tr Wfk Carson River.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Scott Lake is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a low hazard potential and is classified as being in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2017.

Despite its relatively small size, Scott Lake plays a vital role in providing water resources to the surrounding area and serves as an example of responsible dam management and maintenance practices in the face of changing climate conditions. Its strategic location and historical significance make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and study.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Tr Wfk Carson R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

27.1

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

600

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.