New Bullards Bar Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Bullards Bar is a reservoir located in California's Yuba County.


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Summary

The dam was completed in 1970 with a height of 645 feet, making it one of the tallest earth-filled dams in the United States. The reservoir has a capacity of 969,000 acre-feet and is part of the Yuba River Development Project. It provides hydroelectric power and has a surface flow that feeds into the Yuba River.

The water supply for the reservoir comes from several sources, including snowpack from the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which is collected by the Yuba River and its tributaries. The reservoir also receives water from the North Yuba River, Middle Yuba River, and Oregon Creek.

New Bullards Bar Reservoir is used for both agricultural and recreational purposes. It is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and camping. The surrounding area is home to several campgrounds, parks, and trails. Additionally, the reservoir provides water for agricultural purposes in the Yuba County region.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.47%
Percent of Normal 154%
Minimum 340,419.0 acre-ft
2015-12-08
Maximum 963,082.0 acre-ft
2024-05-19
Average 563,038 acre-ft
Nid_Height 645
Hydraulic_Height 626
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Drainage_Area 485
Year_Completed 1970
Dam_Height 645
Structural_Height 645
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 4830
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 3
Nid_Storage 1010000
River_Or_Stream North Yuba River
Dam_Length 2323
       
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.