Upper Elder Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Elder is a private dam located in Big Bend, California, along the Tr Pit River.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 26 feet high and has a storage capacity of 202 acre-feet, serving primarily for water supply purposes such as irrigation. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, Upper Elder provides a reliable source of water for the surrounding area. Owned privately, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply for agricultural and domestic use in Shasta County, California. Its location within the San Francisco District underscores its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Although specific details about its construction year and modifications are not available, Upper Elder remains a key infrastructure for water management in the area. With its regulated status and regular inspections, the dam continues to support the community by ensuring a consistent water supply while mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that Upper Elder plays in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting the region's agricultural activities.

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Tr Pit River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

18.5

Drainage Area

0.82

Nid Storage

202

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.