Busters Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 9, 2026

Busters Reservoir, located in Lassen, California, is a federally owned Earth dam completed in 1955 by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

The reservoir serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. With a dam height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet, Busters Reservoir plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing water resources for various needs.

Despite its low hazard potential, Busters Reservoir is subject to moderate risk, requiring regular inspections and risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 11 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 60 cubic feet per second. The last inspection was conducted in 2008, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. The reservoir's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated", indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its integrity and safety.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Busters Reservoir to be an intriguing site for its unique combination of purposes and historical significance. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the reservoir contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in the region. With its peaceful surroundings and diverse wildlife, Busters Reservoir offers a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems, making it a valuable resource for studying the impacts of water management on the environment.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

8

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.