Morris Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morris is a vital dam located in Mendocino, California, near the city of Willets.


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Summary

Built-in 1927, this arch-type structure stands at 66 feet high and spans 143 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 621 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide water supply, drawing from the James Creek in the region. The dam is under state regulation and enforcement, ensuring its safety and functionality for the local community.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Morris poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection took place in October 2020, with a frequency of one inspection per year. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans, although details on their last revision and compliance with guidelines are not specified. With its strategic location and critical role in water supply, Morris serves as a significant infrastructure for the area, under the oversight of the California state agencies.

Managed by the local government, Morris dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, reflecting the importance of sustainable water supply amidst changing climate conditions. The dam's location, design, and storage capacity contribute to its key function in providing water for the local community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and regulation of dams like Morris is essential for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

143

Dam Height

66

River Or Stream

James Creek

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

58.5

Drainage Area

5.06

Nid Storage

621

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

66
       
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.