Pit No. 5 Open Conduit
Key Takeaway
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 71 ft (taller than 73.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 2,964 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 48 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1944 (82 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00403 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
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
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High Hazard 214 ftPit No. 6 Diversion
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High Hazard 195 ftPit No. 4 Diversion
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High Hazard 110 ftHaynes Reservoir
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High Hazard 255 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pit No. 5 Open Conduit?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Pit No. 5 Open Conduit?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit is owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Pit No. 5 Open Conduit built?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Pit No. 5 Open Conduit?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit 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 Pit No. 5 Open Conduit?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit has a dam height of 71 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 Pit No. 5 Open Conduit last inspected?
Pit No. 5 Open Conduit was last inspected on July 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.