Summary
Completed in 1976, this earth dam stands at 50 feet high and has a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional functions such as irrigation and water supply. The dam covers a surface area of 21 acres and serves a drainage area of 3.86 square miles.
Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Sunflower Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in October 2020, with a satisfactory condition assessment reported in September 2017. Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Situated in Tehama County, Sunflower Dam is strategically positioned to mitigate flood risks and provide essential water resources for the region. With its reliable flood control capabilities and contribution to irrigation and water supply, Sunflower serves as a vital infrastructure asset in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource management challenges in California.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
720 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
Sunflower Gulch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
3.86 |
Nid Storage |
420 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elder C Nr Paskenta Ca
|
984cfs |
Sacramento R Ab Bend Bridge Nr Red Bluff Ca
|
58100cfs |
Cottonwood C Nr Cottonwood Ca
|
14800cfs |
Mill C Nr Los Molinos Ca
|
7290cfs |
Clear C Nr Igo Ca
|
791cfs |
Battle C Bl Coleman Fish Hatchery Nr Cottonwood Ca
|
3550cfs |
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.
Sunflower
South Fork Cottonwood Creek