What type of dam is the Shasta Dam?

The Shasta Dam is classified as a concrete gravity dam, which means it relies on its weight and the force of gravity to resist the water pressure acting against it. Concrete gravity dams are typically massive structures, built with large volumes of concrete, allowing them to effectively withstand the significant forces exerted by the water in the reservoir behind them. This design is particularly suited to the conditions found at Shasta Dam, where the geological and hydrological characteristics necessitate a robust structure to manage both water storage and flood control.

This type of dam is advantageous in areas where suitable foundation conditions exist, allowing for efficient construction and long-term stability. The use of concrete also contributes to durability, making concrete gravity dams ideal for large water storage projects like Shasta, which serves critical purposes such as irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood management.