Middle Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Middle Lake, located in Madera, California, is a privately owned water resource that serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1953, is an earth type structure with a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. Situated along the Tr Buzzard Canyon, Middle Lake covers a surface area of 8 acres and has a drainage area of 0.55 square miles.

With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Middle Lake is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and inspection. Despite its modest size, the lake plays a critical role in water supply for the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose is to provide essential irrigation water for agricultural activities and recreational opportunities for the local community. Overall, Middle Lake stands as a vital resource for both water management and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

370

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Tr Buzzard Canyon

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

19.8

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

74

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.