Blakely is a privately owned earth dam located in El Dorado, California, near the city of Five Mile Terrace. Completed in 1875, the dam serves as a vital water supply structure, standing at a height of 19 meters and boasting a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet. Situated on the Tr Sfk American River, the dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in July 2018.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Blakely is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a drainage area of 0.13 square kilometers and a surface area of 15 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in securing water resources for the region. Despite its age, Blakely continues to fulfill its primary purpose of supplying freshwater, highlighting the enduring importance of maintaining and monitoring our vital infrastructure in the face of changing climates and water resource challenges.

Although lacking specific spillway information, Blakely has been designed to withstand hydraulic pressures up to 13 meters, ensuring the safety and reliability of the structure. With a long history of service and ongoing regulatory oversight, Blakely exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and dam safety in California. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure like Blakely in securing our water supply and adaptability to a changing environment.