Mendota Diversion

San Joaquin River· Madera, California· Built 1917· Buttress· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Irrigation Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Mendota Diversion is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 21.2% in CA)
Dam Length485 ft
Dam TypeButtress
Max Storage3.0K acre-ft
Surface Area1,200 acres
Year Completed1917 (109 years old)
NID IDCA00886

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: June 7, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Division of Safety of Dams

Ownership

Central California Irrigation District

Public Utility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mendota Diversion?

Mendota Diversion is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Mendota Diversion?

Mendota Diversion is owned by Central California Irrigation District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mendota Diversion built?

Mendota Diversion was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Mendota Diversion?

Mendota Diversion 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 Mendota Diversion?

Mendota Diversion has a dam height of 23 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 Mendota Diversion last inspected?

Mendota Diversion was last inspected on June 7, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.