Snowstorm Dam (Blm) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Snowstorm Dam (Blm) is a Federal-owned structure located in Lassen, California, built in 1950 by the Bureau of Land Management.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 7 feet high with a length of 313 feet, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a surface area of 40 acres, Snowstorm Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Snowstorm Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in September 2015, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. It is situated in the San Francisco District and falls under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management for operations, inspections, and maintenance.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Snowstorm Dam (Blm) an interesting structure due to its historical significance and the various purposes it serves in the region. As a key asset managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the dam's role in fire protection, water storage, and ecosystem management makes it a vital component of the local water infrastructure. Its location in a remote area of California adds to its appeal for those interested in exploring the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

313

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

3.2 SQ. MI.

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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.