Lower Sunset Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Sunset is a privately owned dam located in Markleeville, California, along Pleasant Val Creek.


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Summary

The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses in the area. With a height of 38 feet and a hydraulic height of 33 feet, Lower Sunset has a storage capacity of 860 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 41 acres. Despite its age not being specified, the dam is in satisfactory condition and is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety compliance.

Situated within Alpine County, Lower Sunset Dam stands as a vital infrastructure supporting water resource management in the region. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring a reliable water supply for the surrounding communities. It is noteworthy that the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, indicating a stable and well-maintained structure that continues to serve its purpose effectively.

Lower Sunset Dam's presence highlights the importance of proper dam management in sustaining water resources and mitigating potential risks. As a key component in the water supply system of Markleeville, the dam's regulated status, routine inspections, and satisfactory condition underscore a commitment to safety and reliability. Its role in irrigation and water supply underscores the critical need for well-maintained infrastructure to support the local ecosystem and economy, making Lower Sunset a significant asset in the region's water resource and climate management efforts.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Pleasant Val Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1.65

Nid Storage

860

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.