Shasta Dam, located in Redding, California, is a key water resource infrastructure managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for its primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1945, this concrete gravity dam stands at a towering 602 feet high and spans 3460 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of over 4.6 million acre-feet. The dam's hydroelectric operations also support irrigation, navigation, recreation, and water supply in the region.

The Sacramento River is impounded by Shasta Dam, providing critical water management and flood control benefits to the surrounding area. With a spillway width of 375 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 250,000 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle high hazard potential and extreme flood events. Despite its age, Shasta Dam's condition assessment is not available, but regular inspections and risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water infrastructure.

Shasta Dam's strategic location and impressive engineering make it a significant landmark in California's water resource management system. As climate change impacts water availability and variability, the efficient operation and maintenance of dams like Shasta become increasingly important for sustainable water supply and ecosystem health in the region. This iconic structure continues to play a crucial role in shaping the water landscape of the state and serving as a model for integrated water resource management practices.