Utica Main Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Utica Main, also known as Utica No.


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Summary

1, is a privately-owned dam located in Alpine, California, along the North Fork Stanislaus River. Completed in 1903, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 59 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 15.2 square miles, Utica Main plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Utica Main has a high hazard potential and is regulated by various state agencies including the California Department of Water Resources. Its inspection frequency is set at one year, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment is rated as moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. While the condition assessment is not available, steps are being taken to ensure that Utica Main meets safety guidelines and is equipped for emergencies.

Utica Main's strategic location, structural design, and operational history make it a significant asset for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region. As enthusiasts and stakeholders in water resources and climate change, understanding the role and condition of dams like Utica Main is essential for fostering sustainable practices and ensuring the safety and reliability of water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1903

Dam Length

374

Dam Height

59

River Or Stream

North Fork Stanislaus River -

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

233.5

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

15.2

Nid Storage

2500

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

59
       
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.