Turlock Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Turlock Lake, located in Hickman, California, is a public utility dam regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for the safety of dams.


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Summary

Built in 1915, this hydroelectric facility on the Tuolumne River serves as a vital water supply source and has a storage capacity of 63,406 acre-feet. With a dam height of 36 feet and a length of 196 feet, Turlock Lake covers a surface area of 3,260 acres and has a drainage area of 10.4 square miles.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, Turlock Lake has not been modified in recent years and is inspected annually to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's emergency action plan was last updated in January 2019, reflecting the proactive approach taken to mitigate risks and protect the surrounding community. With Josh Harder as the local representative, Turlock Lake stands as a testament to California's commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience. As a key player in the state's hydroelectric infrastructure, this facility plays a crucial role in meeting the region's water and energy needs.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

196

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Tr Tuolumne Rv

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3260

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

10.4

Nid Storage

63406

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.