Jackson Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jackson Creek, also known as Lake Amador, is a vital water resource located in Amador, California.


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Summary

Managed by the local government, this Earth dam was completed in 1965 by Kaiser Engineers for irrigation purposes. With a height of 193 feet and a storage capacity of 24,000 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple functions including fire protection, stock, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation.

Situated in Buena Vista, California, Jackson Creek is regulated by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams agency. The dam's spillway width of 100 feet and maximum discharge of 51,000 cubic feet per second make it a significant structure in the region. While its hazard potential is classified as high, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, with regular inspections conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure safety and compliance.

Overall, Jackson Creek plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area, providing essential irrigation water while also serving as a recreational destination for locals and visitors. With its strategic location and diverse functionalities, this dam represents a key component in the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in California's evolving landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

193

River Or Stream

Jackson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

450

Hydraulic Height

161

Drainage Area

58

Nid Storage

24000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

193
       
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.