Buchanan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buchanan Dam, also known as H.V.


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Summary

Eastman Lake, is a rockfill dam located in Chowchilla, California, along the Chowchilla River. Completed in 1975 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. Standing at a structural height of 218 feet and with a storage capacity of 185,256 acre-feet, Buchanan Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region.

With a hazard potential rated as high, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Risk management measures include continual monitoring, prioritizing activities to address risks, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and readiness for potential dam-related emergencies. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to keep the dam functioning properly. Despite the risks associated with severe weather events and potential dam releases, Buchanan Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and protecting downstream communities from flooding.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1746

Dam Height

179

River Or Stream

CHOWCHILLA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1780

Hydraulic Height

192

Drainage Area

235

Nid Storage

150000

Structural Height

218

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

218
       
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.