Smoke Creek, located in Lassen, California, is a privately owned dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 960 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Smoke Creek plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Smoke Creek is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam also serves additional purposes such as irrigation and water supply, highlighting its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and providing essential resources to the community. With a drainage area of 115 square miles and a surface area of 93 acres, Smoke Creek demonstrates the critical role that water resource management plays in maintaining a balanced climate and ecosystem.

Named after the nearby Smoke Creek Ranch, this dam on Smoke Creek is a vital infrastructure that not only mitigates flood risks but also supports agricultural activities and water supply for the region. With its strategic location and efficient design, Smoke Creek stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.