Silver Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Silver Lake is a privately owned reservoir located in Kyburz, California, along the Silver Fork American River.


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Summary

Built in 1876 for hydroelectric purposes, this Earth dam stands at 32 feet high and has a storage capacity of 13,130 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple functions, including irrigation and recreation, while also being regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for safety and inspection.

With a surface area of 525 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,750 cubic feet per second, Silver Lake poses a high hazard potential and is classified as a very high-risk structure. Despite its age, the dam is regularly inspected and meets state permitting and enforcement requirements. The reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems in the face of a changing climate.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Silver Lake presents a fascinating example of historic dam engineering and the complex interplay between human interventions and environmental factors. As debates around dam safety, water storage, and ecosystem impacts continue, Silver Lake stands as a testament to the enduring importance of managing water resources sustainably in the face of evolving challenges and opportunities.

Year Completed

1876

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

Silver Fork American River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

525

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

15.2

Nid Storage

13130

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.