California Dams and Water Management

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Dams have allowed Californians to harness and control water since pre-European settlement days.

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Native Americans used simple dams for catching salmon.

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California and neighboring states have a vast system of dams for flood management and water storage.

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These dams help prevent billions of dollars in damage and provide pollution-free electricity.

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Hydropower from dams generates about 15% of California's annual electricity.

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This reduces dependence on oil, gas, and coal.

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There are 1,472 federal and state-regulated dams in California.

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Some smaller, private dams do not fall under state jurisdiction.

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Types of dams include concrete, timber, masonry, and earthen.

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They serve purposes like flood control, water supply, and debris diversion.

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Major dams like Shasta, Oroville, and Folsom are concrete or embankment dams.

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Concrete dams are gravity, arch, and roller-compacted, while embankment dams are made of soil or rock.

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75% of California's water originates in the northern third of the state.

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80% of the demand is in the southern two-thirds, especially during dry summer months.

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California's climate leads to extended periods of drought and major floods.

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Dams help manage these challenges by controlling water flow.

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Dams on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada help with flood control and water supply.

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Examples include Oroville Dam, Folsom Dam, and Friant Dam.

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Folsom Dam is a major water supply and flood control dam.

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