A highly simplified simulation of the Sefidurd reservoir load is used to estimate the resolved normal and shear stresses on the causative fault ofthe main Rudbar earthquake of 1990, as inferred from the fault plane solution interpreted in light of the local geology. The estimated stresses are small, being in the range of a few Kilopascal or less. We conchude that the influence of Sefidrud reservoir load was to oppose the occurrence of the Rudbar earthquake.