Buchanan Dam
High HazardNot Available ConditionEmergency Action Plan: Yes
Location
| State | California |
| County | Madera |
| Nearest City | CHOWCHILLA |
| River/Stream | CHOWCHILLA RIVER |
| Coordinates | 37.21713, -119.98453 |
Physical Characteristics
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| NID Height | 219 ft |
| Dam Height | 179 ft |
| Dam Length | 1,800 ft |
| Year Completed | 1975 (51 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 185,256 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 185,256 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 122,576 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,780 acres |
| Drainage Area | 235 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 106,000 cfs |
| Spillway Type | Uncontrolled |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Flood Risk Reduction |
| Owner | USACE - Sacramento District |
| Owner Type | Federal |
| Hazard Classification | High |
| Condition Assessment | Not Available |
| Last Inspection | 10/07/2025 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Yes |