Coleman Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coleman Forebay, located in Shingletown, California, is a private hydroelectric facility constructed in 1911 on the South Fork Battle Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 2604 feet, with a storage capacity of 76.4 acre-feet. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this earth dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes, with a maximum discharge of 500 cfs and an uncontrolled spillway width of 114 feet.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Coleman Forebay underwent its last inspection in September 2017, with an inspection frequency of 1 year. The emergency action plan was last revised in October 2020, indicating its readiness for potential risks. The risk assessment for the facility is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and management practices to ensure the safety and efficiency of this essential water resource infrastructure in Shasta County.

As a significant component of the water resource system in the region, Coleman Forebay plays a crucial role in supporting renewable energy production and water management. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this hydroelectric facility continues to contribute to the sustainable utilization of water resources while addressing the challenges posed by climate change and evolving regulatory requirements.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

2604

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

South Fork Battle Creek - OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

76.4

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.
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