Echo Lake
Key Takeaway
Echo Lake is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1992 and is 34 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 12 ft (taller than 4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 321 ft |
| Dam Type | Roller-Compacted Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 338 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1992 (34 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00374 |
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
El Dorado Irrigation District
Private
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Echo Lake?
Echo Lake 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 Echo Lake?
Echo Lake is owned by El Dorado Irrigation District (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Echo Lake built?
Echo Lake was completed in 1992, making it 34 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 Echo Lake?
Echo Lake serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Recreation, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Echo Lake?
Echo Lake has a dam height of 12 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 Echo Lake last inspected?
Echo Lake was last inspected on August 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.