Three Lakes
Key Takeaway
Three Lakes is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 30.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 584 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 606 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 513 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00334 |
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
Rock Creek
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 126 ftLower Bucks Lake
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 99 ftBucks Lake
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 123 ftSilver Lake
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 21 ftGrizzly Forebay
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 98 ftBelden Forebay
Plumas, CA
High Hazard 124 ftCresta
Plumas, CA
Significant Hazard 113 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Three Lakes?
Three Lakes 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 Three Lakes?
Three Lakes is owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Three Lakes built?
Three Lakes was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Three Lakes?
Three Lakes 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 Three Lakes?
Three Lakes has a dam height of 30 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 Three Lakes last inspected?
Three Lakes was last inspected on August 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.