Relief
Key Takeaway
Relief is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1909 and is 117 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 | 140 ft (taller than 88.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 560 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 15.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 15.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 223 acres |
| Max Discharge | 13,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1909 (117 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00390 |
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
Pacific Gas and Electric Company
Private
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Relief?
Relief 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 Relief?
Relief is owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Relief built?
Relief was completed in 1909, making it 117 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 Relief?
Relief serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Relief?
Relief has a dam height of 140 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 Relief last inspected?
Relief was last inspected on July 18, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.