Misselbeck Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Misselbeck, also known as Rainbow Lake, is a public utility dam located in Shasta, California.


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Summary

Built in 1920, this earth dam stands at 96 feet tall and stretches 470 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3,600 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and water supply for the surrounding area along Nfk Cottonwood Cr.

Despite its significant contribution to water resource management in the region, Misselbeck poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam has been flagged for regular inspections and enforcement by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and Safety of Dams agency. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the maintenance and risk management measures for Misselbeck to ensure the safety of downstream communities in the event of an emergency.

Given its historical significance and vital role in water supply infrastructure, Misselbeck underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance of aging dams. As a key player in flood risk reduction and water supply management, the dam's condition assessment, emergency action plan preparation, and risk management measures must be regularly updated to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding environment and communities. Continued oversight and investment in the upkeep of dams like Misselbeck are essential for sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

96

River Or Stream

Nfk Cottonwood Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

113

Hydraulic Height

82

Nid Storage

3600

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

96
       
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.