Paicines Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque town of Paicines, California, Paicines Reservoir serves as a vital water resource for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a storage capacity of 4500 acre-feet. The reservoir primarily serves the purpose of irrigation and water supply, drawing water from the nearby Tr Tres Pinos Creek.

Managed by the local government, Paicines Reservoir is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources for dam safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 reported it as satisfactory. With a surface area of 170 acres and a length of 3200 feet, the reservoir provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts while also playing a crucial role in water supply management for the region.

With its historical significance and importance in water resource management, Paicines Reservoir stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of infrastructure projects in California. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of a potential hazard. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Paicines Reservoir are essential in safeguarding the environment and ensuring sustainable access to water for future generations.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

3200

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Tr Tres Pinos Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

170

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

4500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.