Balsam Meadow Forebay Main
Key Takeaway
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1986 and is 40 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 123 ft (taller than 86.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,325 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 59 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1986 (40 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01283 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Southern California Edison Company
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Balsam Meadow Forebay Main?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Balsam Meadow Forebay Main?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main is owned by Southern California Edison Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Balsam Meadow Forebay Main built?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main was completed in 1986, making it 40 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Balsam Meadow Forebay Main?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Balsam Meadow Forebay Main?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main has a dam height of 123 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Balsam Meadow Forebay Main last inspected?
Balsam Meadow Forebay Main was last inspected on August 3, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.