Chester Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chester Diversion, located in Chester, California, is a state-regulated water resource structure on the Nfk Feather Rv.


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Summary

Completed in 1975, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 47 feet and serves the primary purpose of debris control, with additional benefits including flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 15 acres and drains an area of 113 square miles.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and Safety of Dams, Chester Diversion has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, last revised in December 2019. While no inundation maps or risk assessments are available, the structure meets regulatory guidelines and operates under the supervision of state agencies to ensure safety and compliance.

Chester Diversion plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the Plumas County region, protecting against debris and reducing flood risks for the surrounding area. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water management and environmental protection efforts in California. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Chester Diversion remain essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the challenges of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1165

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Nfk Feather Rv

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

113

Nid Storage

75

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

47
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.