Copco No 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Copco No 2 Iron Gate
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Copco No 1 is a privately-owned hydroelectric dam located on the Klamath River in Siskiyou County, California.
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Summary
Completed in 1922, this gravity dam stands at a height of 230 feet and has a structural height of 250 feet. With a storage capacity of 60,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,000 acres, Copco No 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation in the region.
The dam is regulated by the State of California and is subject to regular inspections by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams agency. It has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, indicating the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness. Copco No 1 also serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife habitat, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation, making it a vital asset for both the environment and the local community.
With its impressive infrastructure and significant impact on water resources and climate, Copco No 1 stands as a key player in the sustainable management of the Klamath River watershed. Its controlled spillway, Tainter and Vertical Lift outlet gates, and rock foundation highlight the engineering ingenuity behind this historic dam. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and importance of structures like Copco No 1 is essential for ensuring the long-term resilience and sustainability of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
415 |
Dam Height |
230 |
River Or Stream |
Klamath River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1000 |
Hydraulic Height |
123 |
Drainage Area |
4300 |
Nid Storage |
60000 |
Structural Height |
250 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 13, Vertical Lift - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
250 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Klamath R Bl Iron Gate Dam Ca
|
1050cfs |
Klamath River Blw John C.Boyle Pwrplnt
|
930cfs |
Shasta R Nr Yreka Ca
|
165cfs |
Shasta R Nr Montague Ca
|
152cfs |
Klamath River At Keno
|
720cfs |
East Fork Ashland Creek Near Ashland
|
3cfs |
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.
Copco No 1
Iron Gate Dam to Happy Camp