Lower Blue Lake
Key Takeaway
Lower Blue Lake is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1885 and is 141 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 40 ft (taller than 46.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,063 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 198 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,150 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1885 (141 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00380 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Private
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Low Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Blue Lake?
Lower Blue Lake is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lower Blue Lake?
Lower Blue Lake is owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Blue Lake built?
Lower Blue Lake was completed in 1885, making it 141 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Lower Blue Lake?
Lower Blue Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Blue Lake?
Lower Blue Lake has a dam height of 40 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Lower Blue Lake last inspected?
Lower Blue Lake was last inspected on September 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.