Richardson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Sonoma County, California, the Richardson Dam stands as a vital water resource structure managed by a private entity.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this earth dam boasts a height of 40 feet and a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, serving primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes. Positioned along the Tr Gualala River in Stewarts Point, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local agricultural activities and recreational opportunities while ensuring water availability for the surrounding community.

Regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety compliance, the Richardson Dam presents a significant hazard potential due to its structural characteristics and location. Despite this, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in March 2020. With a history of fulfilling its intended purposes effectively, the dam continues to be a key feature in the region's water management infrastructure, contributing to the overall water security and environmental sustainability of the area.

As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources management, structures like the Richardson Dam play a crucial role in ensuring a reliable water supply for the community. With its strategic location and storage capacity, the dam serves as a lifeline for agricultural activities and recreational opportunities, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of evolving climate conditions. By maintaining a satisfactory condition and adhering to regulatory guidelines, the Richardson Dam stands as a testament to effective infrastructure planning and management in safeguarding water resources for the present and future generations.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

137

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Tr Gualala Rv

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.