White Rock Lake
Key Takeaway
White Rock Lake is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1855 and is 171 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 13 ft (taller than 5.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 274 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 570 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 850 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 90 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 350 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1855 (171 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00373 |
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
Independence
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High Hazard 145 ftLake Mary
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Low Hazard 22 ftLake Sterling
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Low Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of White Rock Lake?
White Rock 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 White Rock Lake?
White Rock 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 White Rock Lake built?
White Rock Lake was completed in 1855, making it 171 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 White Rock Lake?
White Rock 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 White Rock Lake?
White Rock Lake has a dam height of 13 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 White Rock Lake last inspected?
White Rock Lake was last inspected on August 12, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.