Meadow Lake
Key Takeaway
Meadow Lake is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1903 and is 123 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 74 ft (taller than 74.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 775 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 4.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 570 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1903 (123 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00381 |
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
Nearby Dams
Twin Lake
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 22 ftUpper Blue Lake
Alpine, CA
High Hazard 21 ftLower Blue Lake
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 40 ftLost Lake East
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 15 ftLost Lake West
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 21 ftTamarac Lake
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 21 ftRed Lake
Alpine, CA
High Hazard 35 ftUpper Sunset Lake
Alpine, CA
Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Meadow Lake?
Meadow 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 Meadow Lake?
Meadow 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 Meadow Lake built?
Meadow Lake was completed in 1903, making it 123 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 Meadow Lake?
Meadow 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 Meadow Lake?
Meadow Lake has a dam height of 74 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 Meadow Lake last inspected?
Meadow Lake was last inspected on August 20, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.