Tinemaha Reservoir, located in Aberdeen, California, along the Owens River, is a significant local government-owned hydroelectric facility completed in 1928. With a dam height of 32 feet and a storage capacity of 16,405 acre-feet, Tinemaha serves the primary purposes of hydroelectric power generation and water supply. Despite its age, the dam is regulated and inspected regularly by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The reservoir's poor condition assessment and high hazard potential underscore the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures. The last inspection conducted in July 2020 revealed areas of concern, prompting the authorities to review and update the emergency action plan (EAP) in December 2021. With its location in a high-risk area and the potential for inundation, the reservoir plays a critical role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region, necessitating continued monitoring and mitigation strategies to safeguard both the dam's integrity and surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts track the evolution of Tinemaha Reservoir, its historical significance and the challenges it faces underscore the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management in safeguarding critical infrastructure. With ongoing regulatory oversight and periodic inspections, stakeholders are working to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential, ensuring that Tinemaha continues to serve its vital functions in the face of changing environmental conditions and evolving water resource needs in California.