Richard L. Schafer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richard L.


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Summary

Schafer Dam, also known as Success Lake, is a federal dam located in Porterville, California, along the Tule River. Built in 1961 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. Standing at a height of 98 feet with a capacity of 230,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its historical performance in reducing flood risks to downstream communities, Richard L. Schafer Dam still poses some concerns related to extreme events like heavy rainfall and earthquakes. The dam has a high hazard potential, and in rare scenarios, could lead to devastating flooding in Porterville and adjacent agricultural areas. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements various measures such as regular inspections, emergency action plans, and coordination with local authorities to ensure the safety of the public.

USACE's ongoing monitoring and risk management efforts at Richard L. Schafer Dam demonstrate a proactive approach to safeguarding communities and infrastructure from potential water-related hazards. By working collaboratively with stakeholders and employing advanced technologies, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

3404

Dam Height

98

River Or Stream

TULE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2450

Hydraulic Height

137

Drainage Area

388

Nid Storage

82300

Structural Height

145

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

145
       
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.