Folsom Dike 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Folsom Dike 3 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Placer, California, along the American River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1956 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 5 feet, serving as a crucial barrier against potential flooding in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 1,010,000 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,570 square miles, Folsom Dike 3 plays a key role in protecting nearby communities from high water levels.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Folsom Dike 3 serves multiple purposes beyond flood risk reduction, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. The dam's associated structures, such as CA10148S001 and CA10148S002, contribute to its overall functionality and effectiveness in water resource management. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Folsom Dike 3 is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued reliability in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", Folsom Dike 3 underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats to its structural integrity. While the dam does not have a spillway, its strategic location and design make it a critical component of the water infrastructure in the region. As a federal-owned structure, Folsom Dike 3 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of various agencies in safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience in California.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1395

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

AMERICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11180

Hydraulic Height

5

Drainage Area

1570

Nid Storage

1120000

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

10
       
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.