Balsam Meadow Forebay Main Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Balsam Meadow Forebay Main is a privately owned hydroelectric facility located in Big Creek, Fresno, California.


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Summary

Built in 1986 by Southern California Edison Co., this rockfill dam stands at a height of 123 feet, with a storage capacity of 1960 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 9000 cubic feet per second. The dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, utilizing the flow of Balsam Creek to produce renewable energy for the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Balsam Meadow Forebay Main is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and operational efficiency. With a high hazard potential due to its location and design, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures. Although the condition assessment is currently not available, the emergency action plan has been updated as recently as December 2020, highlighting the commitment to preparedness and response in case of any unforeseen events.

With a focus on sustainability and water resource management, Balsam Meadow Forebay Main plays a crucial role in supporting the renewable energy sector in California. Its presence underscores the importance of harnessing natural resources like Balsam Creek to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate the impact of climate change. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, keeping track of developments at this hydroelectric facility can provide valuable insights into the intersection of energy production, environmental conservation, and regulatory compliance in the region.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

1325

Dam Height

123

River Or Stream

Balsam Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

59

Hydraulic Height

123

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

1960

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

123
       
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.