Located in Imperial, California, the Senator Wash - Squaw Lake Dike is a critical federal structure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1966, this Earth dam stands at a height of 95 feet and stretches for 3,795 feet, with a storage capacity of 17,766 acre-feet. It plays a key role in regulating the offstream flow of the Senator Wash River, serving as a vital component of water resource management in the region.
With a high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2, the dike requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safeguard against potential emergencies. Despite its remote location and lack of a spillway, the dam's importance in water storage and flood control cannot be understated. As part of the federal infrastructure, the Bureau of Reclamation oversees its operations, inspections, and regulatory matters, highlighting its significance in the overall water management system.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Senator Wash - Squaw Lake Dike represents a key piece of infrastructure in California's water management network. Its role in hydroelectric power generation, storage capacity, and flood control underscores its importance in ensuring water security for the region. As climate change impacts water availability and variability, structures like the Senator Wash - Squaw Lake Dike will play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
3795 |
Dam Height |
95 |
River Or Stream |
SENATOR WASH - OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
470 |
Hydraulic Height |
78 |
Drainage Area |
21 |
Nid Storage |
17766 |
Structural Height |
95 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
95 |