French Meadows Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

French Meadows is a beautiful area located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.


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Summary

The area has a rich history dating back to the Native American tribes that once lived there. The hydrology of French Meadows is fed by the American River and several nearby creeks. The surface flow is provided by the Middle Fork of the American River, which runs through the area. The snowpack is primarily provided by the nearby mountains, which receive heavy snowfall during the winter months. The area is known for its recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. There are also several agricultural activities in the area, including grazing and farming. French Meadows is a beautiful and important area of California that provides many benefits to the state and its inhabitants.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -0.55%
Percent of Normal 184%
Minimum 37,277.0 acre-ft
2015-12-05
Maximum 135,980.0 acre-ft
2006-06-06
Average 61,948 acre-ft
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Top Conserv Storage Levels
Inflow Levels

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.