Niegel Reservoir Report

Nearby: Abrams Aeree

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Niegel is a private water supply dam located in Lotus, California, on the scenic Hastings Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet and has a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of water supply, it also serves for irrigation and recreation purposes, reflecting the multi-functional role of dams in water resource management.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Niegel is subject to state regulations for safety and inspection. Its condition assessment in 2017 was deemed satisfactory, but its significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. With a last inspection date in February 2020, the dam meets guidelines for emergency action plans, yet further risk assessment measures are not specified.

Located within El Dorado County, Niegel is under the jurisdiction of the San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Its strategic position and role in water management make it a notable structure for enthusiasts of water resources and climate, highlighting the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

Hastings Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

57.3

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

99

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

63
       
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.