Scott Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scott Dam is a concrete gravity dam located in Mendocino County, California, USA.


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Summary

It was built in 1922 by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation purposes. The reservoir created by the dam, Lake Pillsbury, has a capacity of 82,000 acre-feet and is fed by the Eel River and its tributaries. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Mediterranean climate that brings wet winters and dry summers. Surface flows in the Eel River are mainly from rainfall, while snowpack in the winter months is a significant source of water supply. The area surrounding the Lake Pillsbury is used for recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and boating. The reservoir also provides water for agricultural use in the nearby vineyards and orchards.

Reservoir Details

24hr Change None%
Percent of Normal None%
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Maximum
Average
Nid_Height 138
Hydraulic_Height 130
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Drainage_Area 289
Year_Completed 1921
Dam_Height 134
Structural_Height 138
River_Or_Stream Eel River
Foundations Unlisted/Unknown
Surface_Area 2280
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Slide (sluice gate) - 26, Tainter (radial) - 5
Nid_Storage 80600
Dam_Length 805
       
Seasonal Comparison
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Top Conserv Storage Levels
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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.