Saddlebag Lake Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saddlebag Lake Reservoir is located in Mono County, California, and was constructed in 1921 to provide hydroelectric power for the city of Los Angeles.


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Summary

The reservoir is fed by several small streams and snowmelt from the surrounding mountains, which are part of the Sierra Nevada range. The snowpack in the Sierras provides the majority of the water supply for the reservoir. Water from the reservoir is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation, but it also supports some agricultural and recreational activities in the area. The surface flow and snowpack providers for the reservoir include streams such as Lee Vining Creek and creeks that flow from the Sawtooth Ridge. Recreational activities in the area include fishing, camping, and hiking, and the reservoir is accessible via hiking trails and a ferry service.

Reservoir Details

24hr Change None%
Percent of Normal None%
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Nid_Height 45
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Year_Completed 1921
Dam_Height 45
Structural_Height 45
River_Or_Stream Lee Vining Creek
Foundations Rock, Soil
Surface_Area 297
Hazard_Potential High
Nid_Storage 18100
Dam_Length 600
       
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.