Keswick
Key Takeaway
Keswick is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 157 ft (taller than 90.7% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,046 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 25.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 640 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6,380 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 250,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10160 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 160 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Keswick?
Keswick 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 Keswick?
Keswick is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Keswick built?
Keswick was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Keswick?
Keswick serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Irrigation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Keswick?
Keswick has a dam height of 157 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 Keswick last inspected?
Keswick was last inspected on September 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.