Weaver Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Weaver Lake Dam, located in Nevada City, California, is a federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 27 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 1390 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam, with a length of 106 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The last inspection conducted in July 2016 deemed its condition as not rated, with an inspection frequency of 10 years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Weaver Lake Dam in maintaining water storage and managing flood risks in the Nevada City area. With its federal ownership and Forest Service management, the dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region. Its design and operational features make it a key player in the local water management system, ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

106

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Y

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

93

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1390

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.