Located in Coloma, California, Camino is a concrete hydroelectric dam designed by Bechtel and completed in 1961. Standing at a structural height of 133 feet and spanning 470 feet in length, Camino is situated on Silver Creek and serves as a critical water resource in El Dorado County. With a normal storage capacity of 528 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 64,000 cubic feet per second, Camino plays a vital role in managing water supply and hydroelectric power generation in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Camino is regulated and inspected at regular intervals to ensure its safe operation. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 120 feet and three vertical lift outlet gates for water release. Despite its low hazard potential, Camino is categorized as having a very high risk level, indicating the importance of effective risk management measures. The dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in February 2021, highlighting the commitment to preparedness and safety in the event of emergencies.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in California, Camino serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and reliable operation, the dam contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources for both local communities and the hydroelectric power sector. As climate change continues to impact water availability and infrastructure resilience, the role of dams like Camino becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring a secure and reliable water supply for the future.
Windspeed
Humidity
Storage 24hr Change | -5.13% |
Percent of Normal | 87% |
Minimum |
62 acre-ft
2007-02-05 |
Maximum |
747 acre-ft
2005-09-28 |
Average | 386 acre-ft |
Dam_Height | 133 |
Hydraulic_Height | 130 |
Drainage_Area | 165 |
Year_Completed | 1961 |
Nid_Storage | 543 |
River_Or_Stream | Silver Creek |
Structural_Height | 133 |
Primary_Dam_Type | Concrete |
Surface_Area | 20 |
Outlet_Gates | Vertical Lift - 3 |
Dam_Length | 470 |
Hazard_Potential | Low |
Nid_Height | 133 |