Ponderosa
Key Takeaway
Ponderosa is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 157 ft (taller than 90.7% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 653 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 103 acres |
| Drainage Area | 108 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 60,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00274 |
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
South Feather Water and Power Agency
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Forbestown Diversion
Butte, CA
Low Hazard 81 ftLake Wyandotte
Butte, CA
High Hazard 46 ftLake Madrone
Butte, CA
High Hazard 37 ftGrizzly Creek
Butte, CA
Significant Hazard 50 ftBidwell Bar Canyon Saddle
Butte, CA
High Hazard 47 ftMiner'S Ranch
Butte, CA
High Hazard 55 ftLost Creek
Butte, CA
High Hazard 112 ftSouth Fork Diversion
Plumas, CA
Low Hazard 60 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ponderosa?
Ponderosa 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 Ponderosa?
Ponderosa is owned by South Feather Water and Power Agency (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ponderosa built?
Ponderosa was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Ponderosa?
Ponderosa serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ponderosa?
Ponderosa has a dam height of 157 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 Ponderosa last inspected?
Ponderosa was last inspected on August 22, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.