Philbrook Main Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Philbrook Main is a privately-owned dam located in Stirling City, California, along Philbrook Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1926, this Earth dam stands at a height of 87 feet and stretches 850 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5009 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is for hydroelectric power generation, making it an essential resource for renewable energy in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Philbrook Main is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its safety and compliance with dam standards. With a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment, emergency preparedness measures are crucial for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks.

Overall, Philbrook Main serves as a vital component of California's water resource infrastructure, providing both hydroelectric power and water storage benefits. As climate change impacts water resources, the proper management and upkeep of dams like Philbrook Main are crucial for ensuring a sustainable and resilient water supply for the region. Enthusiasts in water resources and climate change will find this dam's history, design, and operational details intriguing as they study the intersection of water management and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

87

River Or Stream

Philbrook Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

173

Drainage Area

5

Nid Storage

5009

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

87
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.