Lake Fordyce Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Fordyce, located in California, is a captivating hydroelectric reservoir nestled in the scenic surroundings of Nevada County.


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Summary

Built in 1873, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 145 feet and boasts a storage capacity of over 49,000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with a maximum discharge capacity of 17,500 cubic feet per second.

Managed by a private entity, Lake Fordyce is regulated by the state of California and inspected regularly for safety and compliance. The dam's spillway, with a width of 148 feet, is designed to handle controlled releases in case of excess water levels. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment remains at a very high level, necessitating stringent risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Despite its age, Lake Fordyce continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power production in the region. With its picturesque location and impressive engineering, this historic reservoir stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources and climate resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1873

Dam Length

1220

Dam Height

145

River Or Stream

Fordyce Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

772

Hydraulic Height

133

Drainage Area

31.7

Nid Storage

49903

Structural Height

136

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

145
       
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.