James Porter Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Porter, also known as Porter Reservoir, is a privately owned water resource located in Modoc, California, near Xl Ranch Indian Res.


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Summary

Built in 1928 for irrigation and water supply purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the California Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams division.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, James Porter reservoir plays a crucial role in water supply for the surrounding area, drawing from Tr Parker Cr. Its location at S 1, T42N, R13E, MD, showcases its significance in the region's water management infrastructure. With a drainage area of 0.06 square miles and a surface area of 19 acres, the reservoir provides essential resources for agricultural and domestic use in the vicinity.

Owned by a private entity, James Porter dam is a key component in the water supply network of the region. Its strategic location and historical significance make it a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the dynamics of water management in the Modoc County area. With ongoing inspections and enforcement measures in place, this reservoir continues to serve its primary purpose of water supply while maintaining a fair condition rating.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

1240

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Tr Parker Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

16.7

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

106

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.