Folsom Dike 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Folsom Dike 5, located in Placer, California, is a crucial federal structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a impressive height of 100 feet and spans 1915 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 1,120,000 acre-feet. Situated on the American River, Folsom Dike 5 plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its age, Folsom Dike 5 continues to be a high hazard potential structure with a risk assessment rating of 2, requiring regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. The dam serves multiple purposes beyond flood risk reduction, including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply for the region. With a history of federal ownership and funding, this critical infrastructure is a key component of the water resource management system in California.

As a central part of the Bureau of Reclamation's operations, Folsom Dike 5 is a cornerstone of water management in the region, demonstrating the importance of infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. With its high hazard potential and multiple functions, this dam represents a significant investment in water security and disaster preparedness for the community of Folsom and the surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1915

Dam Height

100

River Or Stream

AMERICAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11180

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

1570

Nid Storage

1120000

Structural Height

100

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

100
       
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

Location Reservations Toilets
Folsom Dike 5BP55 Preview BP55
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Folsom Dike 5BP53 Preview BP53
Folsom Dike 5BP52 Preview BP52
Folsom Dike 5BP02 Preview BP02
Folsom Dike 5BP56 Preview BP56