Terminus Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Terminus Dam, also known as Lake Kaweah, is a federal-owned structure located in Lemon Cove, California, on the Kaweah River.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 235 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. With a maximum storage capacity of 235,205 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 113,431 acre-feet, Terminus Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Terminus Dam has historically performed well in reducing the risk of downstream flooding to communities along the Kaweah River. However, factors such as extreme rainfall, snow melting in the Sierras, and earthquakes pose a potential threat to its stability. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) actively manages the dam, working closely with local emergency managers and regularly updating the emergency action plan to reduce risks to the public. With full-time staff on-site, regular maintenance, and 24/7 availability for inspections, Terminus Dam is closely monitored to ensure it operates as designed and to mitigate any potential risks that may arise.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

2375

Dam Height

235

River Or Stream

KAWEAH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1945

Hydraulic Height

245

Drainage Area

560

Nid Storage

143000

Structural Height

255

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

255
       
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.