Boca

LITTLE TRUCKEE RIVER· Nevada, California· Built 1939· Earth· 116 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Boca is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 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 116 ft (taller than 85.1% in CA)
Dam Length1,630 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage41.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage32.9K acre-ft
Surface Area977 acres
Drainage Area171 sq mi
Max Discharge8,000 cfs
Year Completed1939 (87 years old)
NID IDCA10135

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 3, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Boca?

Boca 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 Boca?

Boca is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Boca built?

Boca was completed in 1939, making it 87 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 Boca?

Boca serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Boca?

Boca has a dam height of 116 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 Boca last inspected?

Boca was last inspected on September 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.