Tiger Creek Forebay Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tiger Creek Forebay is a privately owned hydroelectric facility located in Pioneer, California.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed out of earth, stands at 33 feet high and spans 900 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.3 acres. Situated on Tiger Creek, the forebay is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Tiger Creek Forebay plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power while mitigating potential risks to the surrounding community. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 16 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 675 cubic feet per second, providing an additional layer of safety in case of emergencies. Despite the lack of recent condition assessment data, the facility has an emergency action plan in place and is regularly inspected to uphold its operational integrity and environmental impact.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tiger Creek Forebay offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of energy production and environmental stewardship. As a key player in California's renewable energy landscape, this hydroelectric facility showcases the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and regulatory oversight in safeguarding water resources and addressing climate challenges. With its strategic location in Amador County and innovative design features, Tiger Creek Forebay exemplifies the potential for responsible water management in a changing climate landscape.

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

Tiger Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.3

Nid Storage

42

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.