Lake Sterling Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Sterling, located in Nevada County, California, is a privately owned hydroelectric reservoir on Fordyce Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1858, the rockfill dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,764 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 111.6 acres and serves as a source of power generation for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lake Sterling has a spillway width of 13 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 400 cubic feet per second. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, the dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While its condition assessment is currently unavailable, emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Lake Sterling for its historical significance, hydroelectric capabilities, and role in water management in the region. The dam's presence on Fordyce Creek not only contributes to power generation but also provides vital water storage for irrigation and other purposes. As a regulated structure with a focus on safety and risk management, Lake Sterling showcases the intersection of human infrastructure with natural resources in a sustainable manner.

Year Completed

1858

Dam Length

228

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Fordyce Creek - Tr

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

111.6

Hydraulic Height

31.2

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1764

Structural Height

33.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.