Lake Theodore
Key Takeaway
Lake Theodore is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1896 and is 130 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 40 ft (taller than 46.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 402 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 207 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1896 (130 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00360 |
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
Placer County Water Agency
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lake Arthur
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High Hazard 44 ftHalsey Forebay No. 1
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High Hazard 38 ftNorth Fork Dam
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Significant Hazard 143 ftBoole
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Low Hazard 25 ftLake Combie
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High Hazard 95 ftLakewood
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High Hazard 33 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Theodore?
Lake Theodore 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 Lake Theodore?
Lake Theodore is owned by Placer County Water Agency (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Theodore built?
Lake Theodore was completed in 1896, making it 130 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 Lake Theodore?
Lake Theodore serves the following purposes: Other, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Theodore?
Lake Theodore has a dam height of 40 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 Lake Theodore last inspected?
Lake Theodore was last inspected on December 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.