News Release Archive

Reclamation Performing Safety Assessments of Folsom Dam Dikes

Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken, 916-978-5100, 07/20/2004 17:48

For Release: July 20, 2004

Reclamation is conducting an investigation program at several of Folsom Dam's dikes that include drilling operations and constructing test pits near the toe of those dikes. This work will continue for several months to collect data needed for updating evaluations of these structures.

Currently and for the next two to three weeks, crews are boring a series of drill holes in the downstream edge of the crest of Dike 5, located along the west side of the reservoir adjacent to Beals Point State Park. The work will then continue with similar investigations along the crest of the wing dams on either side of Folsom Dam.

Folsom Dam includes the main concrete gravity dam, the left and right wing dams, eight dikes, and Mormon Island Auxiliary Dam. Reclamation regularly reviews its facilities to ensure they do not present unreasonable risks to the public, property, and the environment. As part of this program, investigations and evaluation of dams and dikes are conducted to ensure that the risks posed by these structures are maintained at a minimum level.

For additional information, call Gary Egan in Reclamation's Mid-Pacific Regional Office at 916-978-5234, TDD 916-978-5608.

# # #

The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.