Packer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Packer Lake, located in Sierra County, California, is a rockfill dam constructed in 1899 by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 11 feet and a length of 90 feet, this dam serves a primary purpose of 'Other' and is primarily regulated and managed by the Forest Service. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 20 feet, and it has been rated as having a 'Significant' hazard potential.

Despite not having a designated storage capacity or surface area, Packer Lake remains a notable water resource in the region. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this dam continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in California. While its condition assessment is currently 'Not Rated', ongoing risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for the surrounding ecosystem and communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Packer Lake serves as an intriguing example of early dam construction and the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1899

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

11

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Structural Height

11

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.