Nevada City Raw Water Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque city of Nevada City, California, the Nevada City Raw Water Reservoir stands as a vital water supply structure for the local community.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, this reservoir is designed to provide water for the city's residents, with a primary purpose of water supply. Completed in 1980, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 48 feet and has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, ensuring a reliable source of water for the region.

Situated along the tranquil Tr Little Deer Creek, this reservoir plays a crucial role in the water management infrastructure of Nevada City. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Nevada City Raw Water Reservoir is deemed to be in good standing for providing essential water resources to the community. Regular inspections and enforcement measures underscore the commitment to maintaining the safety and efficiency of this key water resource, ensuring its continued functionality for years to come.

As climate change impacts water resources across the globe, the Nevada City Raw Water Reservoir stands as a resilient asset in ensuring water security for the residents of Nevada City. With its strategic location, adequate storage capacity, and adherence to regulatory standards, this reservoir exemplifies a sustainable approach to water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

908

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

Tr Little Deer Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

48
       
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.