Forbestown Diversion, located in Forbestown Powerhouse, California, is a public utility facility designed by Bechtel for hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, completed in 1962, is a concrete structure standing at 81 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 80 feet. It serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply, with a storage capacity of 352 acre-feet.
The dam, situated on the South Fork Feather River, has a spillway width of 230 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 45,400 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the facility is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement through the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams program. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees its operation, inspections, and regulatory compliance.
With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Forbestown Diversion is a critical infrastructure for water resource management in Butte County. The facility's emergency action plan was last revised in November 2020, ensuring preparedness for any unforeseen events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the unique design and functionality of this essential water infrastructure, serving both the community and the environment.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
268 |
Dam Height |
81 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Feather River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
80 |
Drainage Area |
87.5 |
Nid Storage |
352 |
Structural Height |
81 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
81 |
N Yuba R Bl Goodyears Bar Ca
|
166cfs |
Deer C Nr Smartville Ca
|
12cfs |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
130cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
30cfs |
Yuba R Nr Marysville Ca
|
643cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
57cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Golden Trout
|
||
Golden Trout Crossing
|
||
Sly Creek Campground
|
||
Sly Creek
|
||
Sly Creek Recreation Area
|
||
Madrone Cove Campground
|
One-Quarter Mile Upstream From Confluence With Slate Creek To Bullards Bar Reservoir Spillway (Elevation 1902 Feet)
One-Eighth Mile Downstream From Confluence With Cherokee Creek To One-Quarter Mile Upstream From Confluence With Slate Creek
Slate Reservoir To North Yuba River
Nelsons Crossing To Confluence With Middle Fork Feather Wsr
Confluence With South Fork Canyon Creek To Confluence With North Yuba River
Headwaters Of North Yuba River (Sec 10, T20N, R13 E) To One-Eighth Mile Downstream Of Confluence With Cherokee Creek