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Big Sage Reservoir
Location of Big Sage Reservoir in California, USA.
Location of Big Sage Reservoir in California, USA.
Big Sage Reservoir
Location in California
Location of Big Sage Reservoir in California, USA.
Location of Big Sage Reservoir in California, USA.
Big Sage Reservoir
Location in the United States
Location Modoc County, California
Coordinates 41°36′15″N 120°39′05″W / 41.60417°N 120.65139°W / 41.60417; -120.65139
Type reservoir
Primary outflows Rattlesnake Creek
Catchment area 107 square miles (280 km2)
Basin countries United States
Max. length 5 miles (8.0 km)
Max. width 4 miles (6.4 km)
Surface area 5,270 acres (2,130 ha)
Water volume 77,000 acre-feet (95,000,000 m3)
Surface elevation 4,898 feet (1,493 m)

Big Sage Reservoir is a large, man-made lake located in Modoc County, California. It is found within the beautiful Modoc National Forest. This reservoir was created by building a dam, which was finished in 1921. It helps store water for different uses in the area.

What is Big Sage Reservoir?

Big Sage Reservoir is an artificial lake. This means it was created by people, not by nature. It holds a lot of water, about 77,000 acre-feet (95,000,000 m3). That's enough water to cover 77,000 acres with one foot of water! The lake is quite big, stretching about 5 miles (8.0 km) long and 4 miles (6.4 km) wide.

How Water Flows In and Out

The water from Big Sage Reservoir flows into a stream called Rattlesnake Creek. This creek then joins a larger river known as the Pit River. The area that collects water for the reservoir, called the catchment, is about 107 square miles (280 km2).

Big Sage Dam: The Wall of Water

The water in Big Sage Reservoir is held back by a structure called Big Sage Dam. This dam is made of earth. It is about 680 feet (210 m) long and 49 feet (15 m) tall. The dam was built to create the reservoir and manage the water supply. The Hot Springs Valley Irrigation District is in charge of taking care of the dam.

Fun Things to Do at the Reservoir

Big Sage Reservoir is a great place for outdoor activities. There is a campground where you can stay overnight. You can also use the boat ramp to launch your boat onto the lake. Both of these spots are located just north of the dam. It's a perfect place to enjoy nature and the water!

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