Lower Bear Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Bear in California is a river that flows through the Sierra Nevada Mountains and into the Sacramento River.


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Summary

The river has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. The hydrology of the Lower Bear River is influenced by the snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, as well as by rainfall. There are several specific surface flow and snowpack providers in the area, including the Yuba River, the Feather River, and the Sierra Nevada snowpack. The Lower Bear River is used for agricultural purposes, with irrigation systems drawing water from the river, and also for recreational activities such as fishing and rafting. Due to the importance of the Lower Bear River for both human and ecological purposes, efforts have been made to protect and preserve the river and its ecosystem.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -1.05%
Percent of Normal 188%
Minimum 5,774.0 acre-ft
2021-03-16
Maximum 52,330.0 acre-ft
2023-06-07
Average 23,107 acre-ft
Nid_Height 245
Hydraulic_Height 124.9
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Drainage_Area 37
Year_Completed 1952
Dam_Height 245
Structural_Height 245
Surface_Area 746
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 1
Nid_Storage 52025
River_Or_Stream Bear River
Dam_Length 1844
Hazard_Potential High
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Top Conserv Storage Levels
Inflow Levels

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.