Telephone Flat in Modoc, California, is a Federal-owned earth dam completed in 1931 by the USDA Forest Service for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. Standing at 7 feet high and 425 feet long, it stores 1200 acre-feet of water with a drainage area of 10.3 square miles. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 50 feet and a slide sluice gate for outlet gates.
Despite its low hazard potential, Telephone Flat poses a very high risk due to its age and lack of recent condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in 2010, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its risk management measures closely to ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding area.
With Doug LaMalfa (R) as the Congressional Representative for the San Francisco District where Telephone Flat is located, stakeholders in water resource management should advocate for updated inspections, risk assessments, and emergency action plans to mitigate potential hazards and protect the local ecosystem. As a vital structure for both fire protection and aquatic life support, Telephone Flat serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring in the face of changing climate conditions.
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