Herring Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Herring Creek Reservoir, located in Tuolumne County, California, is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1939 by the USDA Forest Service, this concrete dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 68 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet for its primary purpose as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The reservoir is nestled along Herring Creek, offering a serene setting for recreational activities and wildlife observation.

Managed by the Forest Service, Herring Creek Reservoir boasts a significant hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway serves as a vital component of the reservoir's operations, allowing for the controlled release of water in times of excess storage.

As a hub for environmental conservation and outdoor enjoyment, Herring Creek Reservoir is a prime example of sustainable water management in California. Its historical significance, coupled with its role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats, makes it a must-visit site for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

68

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

HERRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.