Reservoir M Reservoir Report
Nearby: Reservoir N Surveyors Valley
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Reservoir M, located in Modoc, California, is a federal-owned earth dam completed in 1977 primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 13 feet and a storage capacity of 2840 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural needs in the region. The dam's controlled spillway with a width of 80 feet allows for the safe release of excess water during heavy rainfall events, ensuring the safety of downstream areas.
Managed by the Forest Service, Reservoir M has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's slide gate outlet system and the lack of a current condition assessment highlight the need for ongoing monitoring to ensure its structural integrity. Despite not being state-regulated, the reservoir serves as a vital resource for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes in addition to irrigation, making it a key asset for water resource management in the area.
Overall, Reservoir M stands as a critical infrastructure piece in the water supply network of California, contributing to the agricultural sustainability and water security of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of this dam are essential to ensure its continued functionality and safety for both human and environmental needs. With its strategic location and purposeful design, Reservoir M serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
13 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
2840 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
56cfs |
Sf Pit R Nr Likely Ca
|
7cfs |
Pit R Bl Pit No 1 Ph Nr Fall River Mills Ca
|
1470cfs |
Klamath Straits Drain Near Worden
|
1cfs |
Ady Canal At Highway 97
|
39cfs |
North Canal At Highway 97
|
104cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Reservoir C Campground
|
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Reservoir C
|
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Reservoir F
|
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Reservoir F Campground
|
Reservoir M
Sally'S Camp To Confluence With Willow Creek