Empire Weir No. 1, located in Kings County, California, along the South Fork Kings River, was completed in 1906 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. This buttress dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Managed by a public utility, Empire Weir No. 1 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood events while also supporting irrigation activities in the region. With a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, this historical dam continues to serve its intended purposes effectively. However, the lack of specific spillway information and the absence of associated structures raise questions about its full operational capabilities and emergency preparedness measures.

As part of the Sacramento District, Empire Weir No. 1 falls under state regulation by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for dam safety. With Congressman TJ Cox overseeing the area, the dam's location in the city of Stratford underscores its importance in managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. Enthusiasts in water resource management and climate adaptation can appreciate the historical significance and ongoing monitoring efforts of Empire Weir No. 1 in safeguarding the local community and ecosystem.