Summary
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.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
5800 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Owens River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2098 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.5 |
Drainage Area |
1915 |
Nid Storage |
16405 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tinemaha Campground
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Tinnemaha
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Taboose Creek County Park
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Goodale Creek
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Goodale Creek Campground
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Big Pine Triangle Park
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Tinemaha
Tinemaha Reservoir
Wilderness Boundary To Private Property