Red Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Red Lake, located in Hope Valley, California, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1924 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 1410 acre-feet. The dam spans 1920 feet and impounds Red Lake Creek, creating a surface area of 85 acres and serving irrigation and water supply needs in the region.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, Red Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the California Department of Water Resources for dam safety. The dam's emergency action plan was last reviewed in March 2021, ensuring that necessary measures are in place in the event of a crisis. Its location in Alpine County, within the jurisdiction of the state, highlights its importance in managing water resources in the region.

Overall, Red Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management in California, serving as a vital infrastructure for water supply and irrigation. With its state-regulated status and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in ensuring the safety and reliability of water resources in the area. Its history, design, and purpose make it a significant feature in the local landscape and a key asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

1920

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Red Lake Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1410

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.