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BELDEN FOREBAY

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March 23, 2025


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Belden Forebay, also known as Caribou Afterbay, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility located in Little Haven, California. Built in 1958, this rockfill dam stands at 124 feet tall with a structural height of 152 feet and a length of 653 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 2,480 acre-feet and covers an area of 42.4 acres, serving as a critical component of the North Fork Feather River's hydroelectric infrastructure.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Belden Forebay plays a crucial role in generating clean energy while also regulating water flow and providing flood control. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 113 feet, can handle a maximum discharge of 35,700 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, regular state inspections and enforcement ensure that the facility meets safety standards and protocols, maintaining the integrity of the structure and safeguarding the surrounding communities.

With its significant storage capacity, strategic location, and essential role in the region's water resource management, Belden Forebay stands as a testament to sustainable hydroelectric power generation and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricate design, operational efficiency, and regulatory oversight of this dam are a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in harnessing the power of water for the greater good.

Year_Completed 1958
Dam_Height 124
River_Or_Stream North Fork Feather River
Dam_Length 653
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Surface_Area 42.4
Hydraulic_Height 124
Drainage_Area 616
Nid_Storage 2480
Structural_Height 152
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 4
Hazard_Potential High
Foundations Rock
Nid_Height 152
       

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