Stanislaus Forebay East Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Murphys, California, Stanislaus Forebay East is a private hydroelectric dam on the North Fork Stanislaus River-os.


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Summary

Built in 1908, this Earth-type dam stands at 55 feet tall and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, making it an essential resource in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Stanislaus Forebay East has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the dam undergoes regular inspections and has an emergency action plan in place. With a maximum discharge capacity of 540 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 34 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

Overall, Stanislaus Forebay East remains a key infrastructure for hydroelectric power generation in Tuolumne County, California. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a vital component in the region's water resource management strategy and contributes to the sustainable development of the local community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site offers valuable insights into the intersection of energy production, environmental conservation, and emergency preparedness.

Year Completed

1908

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

North Fork Stanislaus River-os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.3

Nid Storage

320

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

55
       
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.