L. L. Anderson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

L. Anderson, also known as French Meadows, is a local government-owned dam located in Placer, California, near Auburn. This earth dam, completed in 1965, primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with additional benefits for hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 231 feet and a storage capacity of 134,000 acre-feet, the dam spans 2,700 feet and has a surface area of 1,430 acres, drawing water from the Middle Fork American River.

Managed and regulated by various state and federal agencies, including the California Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, L. L. Anderson poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 37 feet and two Tainter (radial) outlet gates. Despite its risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will be intrigued by the detailed information available for L. L. Anderson, from its designer (McCreary-Koretsky) to its emergency action plan status and risk management measures. As a key infrastructure for water management in the region, this dam exemplifies the complex interplay between human development and natural resources, underscoring the need for sustainable practices and robust regulatory oversight to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard water security in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

231

River Or Stream

Middle Fork American River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1430

Hydraulic Height

223

Drainage Area

47.2

Nid Storage

134000

Structural Height

231

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

231
       
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.