Chili Bar is a privately owned concrete gravity dam located in El Dorado, California, along the South Fork American River. Completed in 1964, this hydroelectric structure stands at 126 feet high and has a storage capacity of 3,140 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Chili Bar is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

This dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 170 feet and a maximum discharge of 100,000 cubic feet per second. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, contributing to the sustainable utilization of water resources in the region. The surrounding area covers a surface area of 110 acres and has a drainage area of 597 square miles, making Chili Bar a vital component of the local water management infrastructure.

Despite its age, Chili Bar remains a critical asset for water resource management in California, providing both storage and regulatory functions. With its strategic location along the South Fork American River, this dam plays a key role in ensuring water availability and energy production in the region. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can appreciate the significance of Chili Bar in maintaining a balanced and sustainable approach to water resource management.