Coyote Valley Dam, also known as Lake Mendocino, is a federal-owned structure located in Mendocino, California. Completed in 1959, the dam stands at a height of 164 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 155,500 acre-feet, the dam is situated on the East Fork Russian River and covers a surface area of 1,740 acres.

A risk assessment conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2012 identified potential concerns such as erosion near the outlet pipe and embankment damage during earthquakes. Despite being categorized as having a moderate risk, the dam is subject to ongoing risk management measures including emergency preparation, enhanced monitoring, and surveillance protocols. The dam maintenance and operations staff continuously monitor its performance, while the emergency action plan ensures quick response and proactive warnings to evacuate downstream areas in case of an emergency.

Coyote Valley Dam plays a crucial role in reducing risk to the public downstream, with the US Army Corps of Engineers implementing measures to ensure its safe and reliable operation. Despite the identified risks, the dam's surveillance and emergency preparedness efforts aim to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community from the impacts of a dam breach.