Highland Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highland Creek, also known as Highland Springs Reservoir, is a vital water resource in Lake County, California.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by a public utility, this dam was completed in 1962 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a height of 75 feet and a storage capacity of 3500 acre-feet, Highland Creek plays a crucial role in water supply and recreation for the local community.

Located in the city of Finley, Highland Creek is regulated by the Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory. With a drainage area of 14.15 square miles and a surface area of 72 acres, the reservoir serves as a significant source of water for the surrounding region.

Constructed by the USDA NRCS, Highland Creek stands as a testament to effective flood control and water management in California. Its presence not only reduces the risk of flooding but also provides opportunities for recreational activities and sustainable water supply. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Highland Creek in ensuring water security and resilience cannot be understated.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

Highland Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

72

Hydraulic Height

64

Drainage Area

14.15

Nid Storage

3500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

75
       
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.