Upper Sunset Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Sunset Lake in Markleeville, California, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1904 for water supply purposes, specifically for irrigation and water supply.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Situated along the U Pleasant Vy Creek, the dam has a surface area of 27 acres and serves as a vital water resource in Alpine County.

Maintained by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams division, Upper Sunset Lake has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2017. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management in the region, with regular inspections ensuring its safety and functionality. The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to observe the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.

With its historical significance dating back over a century, Upper Sunset Lake serves as a testament to the importance of water conservation in California. The dam's strategic location and purposeful design contribute to its role in providing water for agricultural and domestic use in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and preserving structures like Upper Sunset Lake becomes increasingly essential for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

70

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

U Pleasant Vy Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.