Summary
Built in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 139 feet and has a storage capacity of 55,477 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 1,580 acres and is fed by Lit Last Chance Creek, serving irrigation, recreation, and water supply needs in the region.
Managed by the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, Frenchman Lake has a high hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment taking place in September 2017. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans, although the details of their preparation and compliance with guidelines are not specified in the available data. In the event of an emergency, the appropriate regulatory agencies and local authorities are responsible for implementing risk management measures and ensuring public safety.
Overall, Frenchman Lake is a crucial water resource infrastructure in California, providing essential services to the surrounding communities. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the dam plays a vital role in water management and supply for agriculture and residential use. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of dams like Frenchman are essential to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable utilization of this valuable resource.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
720 |
Dam Height |
139 |
River Or Stream |
Lit Last Chance Cr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1580 |
Hydraulic Height |
120 |
Drainage Area |
82 |
Nid Storage |
55477 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
139 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Frenchman lake campground
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Frenchman
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Frenchman Campground
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Big Cove
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Cottonwood Springs Campground
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Big Cove Campground
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Frenchman
Frenchman Dam
Frenchman Reservoir To Nf Boundary