Halsey Forebay No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Halsey Forebay No.


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Summary

1, located in Auburn, California, is a privately owned hydroelectric dam completed in 1913. This earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 244 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power and is regulated by the State of California's Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety compliance.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Halsey Forebay No. 1 has a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1200 cubic feet per second. With a hazard potential rated as high and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and emergency preparedness. The surrounding area has a surface area of 18 acres and is situated along Dry Creek, making it a vital water resource in Placer County.

Despite its age, Halsey Forebay No. 1 continues to play a crucial role in the region's water management and renewable energy production. With its rich history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource development in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

Dry Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

36.5

Nid Storage

244

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.