Whiskeytown Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiskeytown, also known as Claire A.


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Summary

Hill Whiskeyton, is a Federal-owned hydroelectric facility located in Shasta, California. The dam, completed in 1963, stands at a height of 263 feet and has a structural height of 282 feet, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 276,117 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including irrigation and water supply for the region.

Situated on Clear Creek in Shasta County, Whiskeytown Dam has a surface area of 3,458 acres and a drainage area of 202 square miles. The spillway, with a width of 21 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a high hazard potential. While the condition assessment is not available, the risk assessment is moderate, indicating potential risks that need to be managed. The dam is regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation, which also handles inspections, operations, and fundings for the facility.

Whiskeytown Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources and hydroelectric power to the region. With its scenic location and important water management functions, it is a significant asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to ensure the safety and reliability of this vital infrastructure.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

2250

Dam Height

263

River Or Stream

CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3458

Hydraulic Height

263

Drainage Area

202

Nid Storage

276117

Structural Height

282

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

282
       
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.