Camanche Main Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camanche Main is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in San Joaquin, California, along the Mokelumne River.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 171 feet and has a storage capacity of 417,000 acre-feet, serving primarily as a water supply source. The dam also fulfills various purposes such as flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation.

Managed by a public utility and regulated by state agencies like the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, Camanche Main is subject to regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a spillway width of 400 feet and a high hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

Camanche Main plays a vital role in water supply management and environmental conservation efforts in the region, supported by federal and state regulations to ensure its safe operation. As a key component of the water infrastructure in California, the dam's significance extends beyond its primary purpose, making it a critical asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

2500

Dam Height

171

River Or Stream

Mokelumne River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

7600

Drainage Area

619

Nid Storage

417000

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

171
       
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.