Located in Friant, California, Kerckhoff Dam stands as a marvel of engineering with its primary purpose being hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1920, this concrete arch dam stretches 507 feet in length and towers 114 feet high, harnessing the waters of the San Joaquin River. With a normal storage capacity of 4250 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 75000 cubic feet per second, Kerckhoff Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region.

Managed by a private entity, Kerckhoff Dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams in California. With a low hazard potential, the dam undergoes regular inspections and has a spillway width of 280 feet to manage controlled releases. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is rated very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kerckhoff Dam serves as a fascinating example of sustainable hydroelectric infrastructure in action, blending functionality with environmental stewardship.