PORTERVILLE, CA — Federal, state, and local leaders celebrated completion of the Tule Spillway Enlargement Project at Schafer Dam. The $135.5 million project increases water conservation capacity for the region while decreasing flood risk for approximately 60,000 people in Porterville, California, and other downstream communities.
Water capacity of Lake Success increased by 28,000 acre-feet for a total of 112,000 acre-feet, made possible by widening the spillway 365 feet and constructing a 10-foot-tall ogee weir that spans the width of the spillway. This system allows for better control of water levels and smooth flow of water.
To commemorate these accomplishments, leaders with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Sacramento District joined federal, state, and local partners, Congressmen Vince Fong, and Mayor of Porterville Greg Meister in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The ceremony marked another key accomplishment in the district’s wider flood risk management mission.
“As we cut the ribbon ... we are also cutting a path forward,” South Pacific Division Commander Colonel James Handura said. “One where partnerships matter, where engineering protects lives, and where the Corps of Engineers continues to build resiliency for the next generation.”
The first phase of the Tule Spillway Enlargement Project began in September 2020 and was completed in February 2022. During this time, contractors widened the spillway’s right abutment and constructed and relocated nearby access roads.
USACE Sacramento District will continue to control operation of the Richard L. Schafer Dam as well as recreational operations at Success Lake.
