Warm Springs Dam
Key Takeaway
Warm Springs Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 319 ft (taller than 98.7% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 3,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 449.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 245.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,600 acres |
| Drainage Area | 130 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 29,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1983 (43 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10303 |
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
USACE - San Francisco District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Warm Springs Dam?
Warm Springs Dam 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 Warm Springs Dam?
Warm Springs Dam is owned by USACE - San Francisco District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Warm Springs Dam built?
Warm Springs Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Warm Springs Dam?
Warm Springs Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Warm Springs Dam?
Warm Springs Dam has a dam height of 319 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 Warm Springs Dam last inspected?
Warm Springs Dam was last inspected on September 27, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.