Preston
Key Takeaway
Preston is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 647 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 268 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00012 |
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
Amador Regional Sanitation Authority
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Csp Mule Creek
Amador, CA
High Hazard 51 ftPreston Forebay
Amador, CA
Low Hazard 40 ftPond K
Amador, CA
Low Hazard 22 ftIone Canal
Amador, CA
Low Hazard 48 ftGoffinet
Amador, CA
High Hazard 38 ftArroyo Seco
Amador, CA
High Hazard 67 ftHenderson
Amador, CA
High Hazard 56 ftJohn Orr
Amador, CA
Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Preston?
Preston 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 Preston?
Preston is owned by Amador Regional Sanitation Authority (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Preston built?
Preston 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 Preston?
Preston serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Other, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Preston?
Preston 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 Preston last inspected?
Preston was last inspected on September 14, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.