Goffinet
May 5, 2024
Goffinet Dam, located in Amador County, California, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along Jackass Creek. Built in 1954, this privately owned Earth dam stands at 38 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 32.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 197 acre-feet. The dam also serves multiple purposes including irrigation, recreation, and water supply, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Managed and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Goffinet Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. With a drainage area of 1.35 square miles and a surface area of 17 acres, the dam has a spillway width and type that are not specified, indicating potential areas for future improvement and risk mitigation. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment taking place in September 2020, ensuring the safety and reliability of the structure for the local residents and ecosystem.
Despite its age, Goffinet Dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively. As climate change exacerbates extreme weather events, the importance of well-maintained dams like Goffinet in safeguarding communities against flooding and ensuring water availability for various uses becomes increasingly critical. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and support the ongoing management and maintenance of such infrastructure to enhance resilience in the face of a changing climate.
| Year_Completed | 1954 |
| Dam_Height | 38 |
| River_Or_Stream | Jackass Creek |
| Dam_Length | 585 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Surface_Area | 17 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 32.5 |
| Drainage_Area | 1.35 |
| Nid_Storage | 197 |
| Hazard_Potential | Significant |
| Nid_Height | 38 |
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