Empire Weir No. 2, located in Kings County, California along the South Fork Kings River, is a vital structure designed primarily for flood risk reduction. Constructed in 1938, this buttress dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential, as evidenced by its last inspection in February 2020.

Owned and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Empire Weir No. 2 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Its strategic location in Stratford, California, underscores its importance in safeguarding both urban and agricultural areas. With a history of successful flood risk reduction and irrigation support, this dam serves as a testament to effective water resource management in the region.

As a public utility structure, Empire Weir No. 2 not only meets regulatory standards for inspection and enforcement but also exemplifies the collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies in ensuring the safety and functionality of water infrastructure. With its solid construction and reliable performance, this dam stands as a testament to the resilience and effectiveness of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring the sustainable use of water in the region.