Balch Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Balch Diversion, also known as Black Rock, is a private structure located in Balch Camp, California, along the North Fork Kings River.


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Summary

Completed in 1927, this concrete dam stands at 135 feet high and serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of 1,295 acre-feet, Balch Diversion plays a crucial role in water resource management in Fresno County.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Balch Diversion has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, but regular state inspections ensure its structural integrity. The dam's uncontrolled spillway can handle a maximum discharge of 47,000 cubic feet per second, making it a key component in flood control efforts in the region.

Situated in a scenic area with a surface area of 35 acres and a drainage area of 56 square miles, Balch Diversion is a vital piece of infrastructure for water supply and environmental conservation in Central California. With its historic significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this hydroelectric facility continues to contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in the region, making it a compelling subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

396

Dam Height

135

River Or Stream

North Fork Kings River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

134

Drainage Area

56

Nid Storage

1295

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

135
       
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.