Wildhorse Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wildhorse is a federal-owned dam located in Modoc, California, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1934, this earth dam stands at 12 feet high and spans 1,260 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a drainage area of 11.5 square miles. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway has a width of 30 feet, and the hazard potential of the dam is rated as low.

Managed by the Forest Service, Wildhorse serves as a valuable resource for water supply and ecosystem support in the region. With its moderate risk assessment, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential hazards and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted every 10 years to monitor its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

As an essential infrastructure for water resource management, Wildhorse exemplifies the intersection of environmental conservation and climate resilience. Its strategic location and purposeful design contribute to sustainable water usage and ecosystem protection, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our valuable water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

1260

Dam Height

12

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

11.5

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.