Woodward Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woodward is a public utility hydroelectric dam located in Farmington, California, along Simmons Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1918, this earth dam stands at a height of 57.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 35,435 acre-feet. Its primary purposes include hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply for the region. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its age, Woodward Dam is considered to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential. The dam's last inspection was conducted in March 2021, and its Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in February 2021. While the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, it meets state guidelines for emergency preparedness. Although there are no specific risk assessment or management measures outlined for the dam, its condition is regularly monitored to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and water resources.

Woodward Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources and hydroelectric power to the region. It is an integral part of California's infrastructure, serving multiple purposes while being subject to strict regulatory oversight to maintain its structural integrity and safety standards. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Woodward's history and operational details to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in action.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

3100

Dam Height

57.5

River Or Stream

Simmons Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2427

Hydraulic Height

53.8

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

35435

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.