Fallen Leaf Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Fallen Leaf Lake Dam, located in El Dorado County, California, is a concrete dam with a height of 12 feet and a length of 265 feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1934 by the Forest Service, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes but also contributes to fish and wildlife management and flood risk reduction. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 6,800 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1,408 acre-feet, making it a significant structure in the region.

With a controlled spillway and vertical lift outlet gates, Fallen Leaf Lake Dam is designed to manage water flow effectively and safely. The dam's hazard potential is rated as significant, and it has a very high risk assessment level. Despite being constructed in the early 20th century, the dam has been modified in 1994 to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in 2015, with its condition currently listed as "Not Rated."

Managed by the Forest Service, Fallen Leaf Lake Dam stands as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the area. Its strategic location on Taylor Creek and its key role in flood risk reduction highlight its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for visitors. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Fallen Leaf Lake Dam become increasingly vital for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water systems.

Years Modified

1994 - Other

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TAYLOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Nid Storage

6800

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.