Keswick Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Keswick Dam, located in Redding, California, along the Sacramento River, is a federal structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 157 feet and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation. With a storage capacity of 25,132 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 250,000 cubic feet per second, Keswick Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a very high risk assessment rating of 1. While the condition assessment is not currently available, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the structure's safety. Keswick Dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 200 feet and is designed to withstand hydraulic pressures up to 121 feet. Despite its age, Keswick Dam continues to play a vital role in water management and flood protection in the area, supported by the expertise and oversight of the Bureau of Reclamation.

As a key component of the Sacramento River system, Keswick Dam's significance extends beyond its primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam's location, design, and operational capacity make it a critical infrastructure for water resource management, environmental conservation, and energy production in the region. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts by the Bureau of Reclamation, Keswick Dam remains a reliable asset for ensuring water security and climate resilience in Shasta County, California.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

1046

Dam Height

157

River Or Stream

SACRAMENTO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

640

Hydraulic Height

121

Drainage Area

6380

Nid Storage

25132

Structural Height

157

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

157
       
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.