French Lake, located in Graniteville, California, is a rockfill dam with a height of 95 feet and a hydraulic height of 89.5 feet. Built in 1859 for irrigation purposes, the dam has a storage capacity of 13,940 acre-feet and serves multiple functions including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge of 4,300 cubic feet per second. The lake has a surface area of 337 acres and drains an area of 4.9 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3). Although the condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans are in place and regularly updated to meet guidelines. With its historical significance and important role in water resource management, French Lake is a key feature in the Nevada County landscape.

French Lake's importance extends beyond its physical attributes, serving as a testament to the ingenuity of its designers, Fred Tibbits and State Engineer. The dam stands as a reminder of the vital role that water resources play in sustaining communities and ecosystems. With its picturesque surroundings and diverse uses, French Lake is a valuable asset that continues to shape the water and climate landscape of the region.