Camino Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Coloma, California, Camino is a concrete hydroelectric dam designed by Bechtel and completed in 1961.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 133 feet and spanning 470 feet in length, Camino is situated on Silver Creek and serves as a critical water resource in El Dorado County. With a normal storage capacity of 528 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 64,000 cubic feet per second, Camino plays a vital role in managing water supply and hydroelectric power generation in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Camino is regulated and inspected at regular intervals to ensure its safe operation. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 120 feet and three vertical lift outlet gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, Camino is categorized as having a very high risk level, indicating the importance of effective risk management measures. The dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in February 2021, highlighting the commitment to preparedness and safety in the event of emergencies.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in California, Camino serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and reliable operation, the dam contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources for both local communities and the hydroelectric power sector. As climate change continues to impact water availability and infrastructure resilience, the role of dams like Camino becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring a secure and reliable water supply for the future.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

133

River Or Stream

Silver Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

130

Drainage Area

165

Nid Storage

543

Structural Height

133

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

133
       
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.