Camp Far West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Far West is a public utility water resource located in Sheridan, California, along the Bear River.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 185 feet and has a storage capacity of 137,280 acre-feet for irrigation purposes. The dam also serves for hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities, covering a surface area of 2020 acres within its 6040 feet length.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Camp Far West is regulated and inspected to ensure safety and compliance with state jurisdiction. With a high hazard potential due to its size and location, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, prompting the development of emergency action plans and regular inspections. Despite its hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard water resources and the surrounding community.

Camp Far West's role in water resource management underscores the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and environmental conservation. As a vital component of California's water infrastructure, this dam serves as a critical lifeline for irrigation, hydroelectricity, and recreation, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. With its strategic location, regulatory oversight, and risk management measures, Camp Far West stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization with environmental stewardship and community safety in the region.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

6040

Dam Height

185

River Or Stream

Bear River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2020

Hydraulic Height

185

Drainage Area

285

Nid Storage

137280

Structural Height

203

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

203
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.