Madera Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Madera Lake, located in Madera, California, is a vital water resource managed by a public utility.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1958, stands at a height of 31 feet and serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet and an impressive surface area of 220 acres, Madera Lake plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the region.

The dam, situated on the Fresno River and under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Water Resources, has a high hazard potential but was rated as satisfactory in its most recent condition assessment in 2017. Regular inspections ensure its safety, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. With its strategic location and efficient water management, Madera Lake continues to be a key component in the water infrastructure of California, providing essential services to the surrounding communities.

Managed by state regulatory agencies and with support from federal entities like the Sacramento District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Madera Lake exemplifies responsible water resource management. The dam's robust design, coupled with ongoing maintenance and emergency preparedness measures, demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of this important water supply. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Madera Lake serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure can harmoniously coexist with natural ecosystems, supporting both human needs and environmental conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

6600

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

Fresno River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

220

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

2300

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.