Black Hawk, also known as Black Hawk Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Madera, California. Built in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply, with additional recreational benefits. With a storage capacity of 740 acre-feet and a surface area of 55 acres, Black Hawk plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Black Hawk is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is situated on Coarse Gold Creek, with a drainage area of 58.8 square miles. Despite its significant hazard potential, Black Hawk has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Black Hawk offers a fascinating case study of a privately owned dam contributing to water supply and recreational activities in California. With its strategic location and storage capacity, Black Hawk underscores the importance of proper management and maintenance of dam infrastructure to meet the region's water needs effectively. As a regulated and inspected structure, Black Hawk exemplifies the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and reliability of water storage systems in the face of changing climatic conditions.