Buckhorn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buckhorn is a federally-owned dam located in Trinity, California, along Grass Valley Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1991 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam stands at a height of 84 feet and has a storage capacity of 1460 acre-feet. With a surface area of 50 acres and a drainage area of 9 square miles, Buckhorn plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but its high hazard potential and very high risk assessment indicate the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring. Despite its critical role in water storage and control, the condition assessment of Buckhorn is currently listed as not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and risk management measures. With the potential for significant downstream impacts in the event of failure, Buckhorn serves as a reminder of the importance of resilient infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Buckhorn's construction, regulation, inspection, and operation are all overseen by this federal agency. With a controlled spillway type and a history of high-risk assessment, Buckhorn stands as a testament to the intricate balance of water resource management and climate adaptation in California. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding Buckhorn's role in the broader context of dam infrastructure and risk management is crucial for ensuring the resilience of our water systems in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

794

Dam Height

84

River Or Stream

GRASS VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

80

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

1460

Structural Height

84

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

84
       
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.