Belden Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belden Forebay, also known as Caribou Afterbay, is a privately owned hydroelectric facility located in Little Haven, California.


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Summary

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 Length

653

Dam Height

124

River Or Stream

North Fork Feather River

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
       
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.