Emigrant Spring Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emigrant Spring, located in Modoc County, California, is a federally owned water resource managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and a small fish pond. With a dam height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, Emigrant Spring plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing water for various uses.

Although rated as having a low hazard potential, Emigrant Spring still poses a moderate risk, warranting regular inspections and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capability of 420 cubic feet per second. Despite not being state regulated, the Forest Service takes responsibility for the design, construction, and operation of the dam, ensuring its functionality and safety for the surrounding community and environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Emigrant Spring in maintaining water supply reliability and supporting wildlife habitat. With its strategic location and water storage capacity, this federal infrastructure serves as a valuable asset in managing water resources and protecting the ecosystem in Modoc County, California.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1320

Dam Height

8

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

7.3

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.