Folsom Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Folsom Dam, located on the American River in Sacramento, California, is a key federal hydroelectric facility owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this concrete gravity dam stands at a towering height of 275 feet and has a structural height of 340 feet, providing essential water storage for irrigation, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of over 1 million acre-feet and a surface area of 11,180 acres, Folsom Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

The dam has undergone modifications in 2000 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, seismic, and structural integrity, ensuring its continued safety and reliability. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Folsom Dam is regularly inspected by the Bureau of Reclamation to uphold its operational standards. Additionally, the dam has an emergency action plan in place, meeting guidelines to effectively manage any unforeseen events. With Congressman Ami Bera representing the area, Folsom Dam remains a vital infrastructure for water supply, flood control, and energy production in the state.

In summary, Folsom Dam stands as a significant engineering feat that not only provides essential water storage and hydroelectric power but also contributes to irrigation and recreational opportunities along the American River. With its impressive storage capacity and structural design, coupled with regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures, Folsom Dam remains a critical asset in water resource management for the Sacramento region.

Years Modified

2000 - Foundation, 2000 - Hydraulic, 2000 - Seismic, 2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

275

River Or Stream

AMERICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

11180

Hydraulic Height

275

Drainage Area

1870

Nid Storage

1002000

Structural Height

340

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

340
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

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