Saddlebag Lake
Key Takeaway
Saddlebag Lake is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 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 | 45 ft (taller than 54% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 18.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 297 acres |
| Max Discharge | 900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00455 |
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
Southern California Edison Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Saddlebag Lake?
Saddlebag Lake 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 Saddlebag Lake?
Saddlebag Lake is owned by Southern California Edison Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Saddlebag Lake built?
Saddlebag Lake was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Saddlebag Lake?
Saddlebag Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Saddlebag Lake?
Saddlebag Lake has a dam height of 45 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 Saddlebag Lake last inspected?
Saddlebag Lake was last inspected on July 19, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.