Graham Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Finley, California, the Graham dam stands as a testament to water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and domestic use. With a height of 39 feet and a hydraulic height of 33.6 feet, the Graham dam boasts a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding area.

Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams, the Graham dam has been deemed to have low hazard potential and satisfactory condition. The dam's location on Tr Highland Creek not only supports local agriculture but also provides a valuable habitat for wildlife in the area. The dam's inspection frequency is set at one year, with the last assessment conducted in February 2020, ensuring its continued safety and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Graham dam stands as an essential infrastructure for sustainable water management in Lake County, California. With its strategic design, reliable storage capacity, and efficient operation, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Graham dam serves as a beacon of resilience and adaptation in the face of a changing climate, highlighting the importance of proactive infrastructure development for a sustainable future.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Tr Highland Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

33.6

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

39
       
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.