Tule Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tule Lake, also known as Moon Lake, is a privately owned reservoir located in Lassen, California, near the city of Likely.


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Summary

Built in 1904, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 39,500 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Tule Lake is for water supply, serving irrigation, recreation, and domestic needs in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Tule Lake is subject to state regulations, including regular inspections and enforcement measures. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is crucial for water management in the area. The reservoir covers a surface area of 2,650 acres and is fed by Cedar Creek, with a drainage area of 82 square miles.

Despite its age, Tule Lake continues to play a vital role in water resource management in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing importance for irrigation and water supply, this earth dam stands as a testament to the engineering feats of the past and the critical role of water infrastructure in sustaining communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Cedar Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2650

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

82

Nid Storage

39500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds