Tamarac Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Tamarac Lake in Markleeville, California, is a privately owned water supply reservoir nestled in the picturesque Alpine County.


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Summary

Built in 1905, this Earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 57 acres and is primarily used for irrigation and water supply purposes. Despite its age, Tamarac Lake has been deemed to have low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017.

Located along Tr Pleasant Vy Creek, Tamarac Lake serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area, providing water for agricultural and domestic use. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, it is subject to routine annual inspections to maintain its integrity and functionality.

With its serene natural surroundings and essential role in water supply management, Tamarac Lake is a valuable asset in the region. Managed with care and oversight by the state regulatory agencies, this reservoir continues to play a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem and meeting the water needs of the community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tamarac Lake offers a fascinating example of historical dam engineering and the importance of responsible water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1905

Dam Length

165

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Tr Pleasant Vy Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

400

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.