Oroville Dam, located in Butte County, California, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a height of 770 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,540,000 acre-feet. Situated on the Feather River, Oroville Dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the region.
Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Oroville Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 140 feet and eight Tainter radial gates for release of excess water during high flow events. The dam has a very high hazard potential rating due to its location and the potential impacts of a dam failure. Regular inspections by both state and federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
With its critical role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region, Oroville Dam is an essential piece of infrastructure that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to safeguard surrounding communities. As a key component of California's water management system, Oroville Dam is a testament to the importance of effective dam regulation and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
6920 |
Dam Height |
770 |
River Or Stream |
Feather River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15800 |
Hydraulic Height |
748 |
Drainage Area |
3611 |
Nid Storage |
3540000 |
Structural Height |
770 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 8 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
770 |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
130cfs |
Deer C Nr Smartville Ca
|
12cfs |
Yuba R Nr Marysville Ca
|
643cfs |
N Yuba R Bl Goodyears Bar Ca
|
166cfs |
Sacramento R A Colusa Ca
|
4480cfs |
Bear R Nr Wheatland Ca
|
13cfs |