Folsom Dike 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Folsom Dike 1 is a crucial Federal-owned structure located in Placer, California, along the American River.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this Earth-type dam stands at 25 feet high and spans a length of 2060 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 1,010,000 acre-feet and is associated with 11 other structures within the area.

With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2, Folsom Dike 1 plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Available," indicating the need for further evaluation and maintenance. Additionally, the dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, highlighting potential areas for improvement to enhance its safety and functionality in times of emergencies.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, keeping a close eye on the maintenance and risk management measures for Folsom Dike 1 is crucial to ensure the safety and resilience of the surrounding area. With its strategic location and vital role in flood control, understanding and addressing any potential vulnerabilities of this structure is essential for effective water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

2060

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

AMERICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11180

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1570

Nid Storage

1120000

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
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.