Trinity
Key Takeaway
Trinity is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 | 458 ft (taller than 99.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 2,450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.8M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.4M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17,722 acres |
| Drainage Area | 692 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10196 |
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
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Trinity?
Trinity 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 Trinity?
Trinity is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Trinity built?
Trinity was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Trinity?
Trinity serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Trinity?
Trinity has a dam height of 458 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 Trinity last inspected?
Trinity was last inspected on February 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.