Upper Salmon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Salmon is a rockfill dam located in Sierra, California, completed in 1899 by the USDA Forest Service.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 13 meters and a length of 70 meters, it serves as a significant water resource in the region. The dam's primary purpose is categorized as 'Other,' with a spillway width of 8 meters and a hazard potential rated as 'Significant.'

Managed and funded by the Forest Service, Upper Salmon plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area. Despite being deemed as 'Moderate (3)' in terms of risk assessment, the dam's condition is currently listed as 'Not Rated,' highlighting the need for further evaluation and maintenance. With its rich history dating back over a century, Upper Salmon stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource infrastructure in the face of changing climates and growing environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

70

Dam Height

13

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

13
       
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.