Stampede Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stampede is a federal-owned dam located in Sierra, California, along the Little Truckee River.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the Bureau of Reclamation, it stands at a height of 226 feet and serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional benefits for recreation and water supply. The dam has a storage capacity of 280,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,885 acres, making it a significant water resource in the region.

With a spillway width of 15 feet and a high hazard potential, Stampede dam is closely monitored by the Bureau of Reclamation for safety and regulatory purposes. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation. The risk assessment for Stampede is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts.

In the event of an emergency, Stampede may pose a significant risk to downstream areas, making it crucial for the Bureau of Reclamation to have an Emergency Action Plan in place. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and its inspection frequency is regular, the lack of available condition assessment data underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential risks associated with its operation. Stampede dam remains a vital component of California's water infrastructure, serving as a key resource for irrigation, recreation, and water supply in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1511

Dam Height

226

River Or Stream

LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3885

Hydraulic Height

225

Drainage Area

135

Nid Storage

280100

Structural Height

256

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

256
       
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.