Courtright Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Courtright Dam, located in Fresno, California, is a rockfill structure built in 1958 for hydroelectric purposes on the North Fork Kings River.


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Summary

With a height of 315 feet and a storage capacity of 134,342 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the region while also serving as a key component in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's regulatory oversight.

Despite its high hazard potential, Courtright Dam has a moderate risk assessment and is regularly inspected by state and federal agencies to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and proximity to Balch Camp make it a critical piece of infrastructure in the area, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks to surrounding communities.

As a significant water resource and climate enthusiasts' point of interest, Courtright Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable hydroelectric infrastructure in California's water management system. Its operation and maintenance underscore the crucial role that dams play in providing clean energy and water resources for the region while also highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

862

Dam Height

315

River Or Stream

North Fork Kings River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1632

Hydraulic Height

311

Drainage Area

39.7

Nid Storage

134342

Structural Height

315

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

315
       
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.