Lake Francis Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Francis, located in Marysville, California, is a vital water supply reservoir managed by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 79 feet, was completed in 2000 and serves the primary purpose of water supply. With a storage capacity of 1905 acre-feet and a surface area of 98 acres, Lake Francis plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the surrounding area.

The dam's high hazard potential is mitigated by regular inspections and maintenance, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of September 2017. The emergency action plan for Lake Francis was last revised in December 2020, ensuring that necessary protocols are in place to address any potential risks. Despite its importance for water supply, the dam's construction and regulatory oversight fall under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Water Resources, emphasizing the collaborative effort to safeguard this essential resource.

Overall, Lake Francis stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the face of climate challenges. Its critical role in providing water security to the region underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this key infrastructure. As water resources continue to face increasing pressures, Lake Francis serves as a model for sustainable water management practices in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

1341

Dam Height

79

River Or Stream

Dobbins Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

98

Hydraulic Height

71.3

Nid Storage

1905

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

79
       
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.