Bottoms Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bottoms is a private dam located in Middletown, California, along the Tr Helena Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 315 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Bottoms is to provide water supply for irrigation, recreation, and domestic use in the area. It is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a Hazard Potential rating of "High" and a Condition Assessment of "Satisfactory," Bottoms poses a significant risk in the event of a failure. Despite its satisfactory condition, emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures are not clearly specified for this dam, raising concerns about its preparedness for potential emergencies. The dam's last inspection was conducted in December 2020, with a frequency of once per year, indicating ongoing efforts to monitor and maintain its structural integrity. As a vital water resource infrastructure in the region, ensuring the safety and resilience of Bottoms is crucial for safeguarding both the environment and the surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

Tr Helena Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

0.88

Nid Storage

315

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.