Dorris Dam
Key Takeaway
Dorris Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 25 ft (taller than 23.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 3,860 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 33.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 843 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 852 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10144 |
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
US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
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Low Hazard 12 ftPlum Canyon
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dorris Dam?
Dorris Dam 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 Dorris Dam?
Dorris Dam is owned by US FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dorris Dam built?
Dorris Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Dorris Dam?
Dorris Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dorris Dam?
Dorris Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Dorris Dam last inspected?
Dorris Dam was last inspected on July 23, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.