Summary
Built in 1925, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 114 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,010 acre-feet. It serves as a vital water supply source, with a primary purpose of water supply and a drainage area of 8.6 square miles.
Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Thompson Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in 2017. With a spillway type unspecified, the dam's design and construction play a crucial role in mitigating potential risks associated with its operation.
Thompson Dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and strategic location along the Middle Canyon River makes it a critical infrastructure for water storage and supply. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the regulatory framework, design specifications, and maintenance protocols of dams like Thompson is essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
114 |
River Or Stream |
Middle Canyon |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
54 |
Hydraulic Height |
102 |
Drainage Area |
8.6 |
Nid Storage |
1010 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
114 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Cactus
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Ben Weston Beach
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Cottonwood Beach
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09
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08
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17a
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Thompson