El Dorado Forebay
Key Takeaway
El Dorado Forebay is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 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 | 91 ft (taller than 79.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 836 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 356 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 310 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 580 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00375 |
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
El Dorado Irrigation District
Private
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Significant Hazard 168 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of El Dorado Forebay?
El Dorado Forebay 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 El Dorado Forebay?
El Dorado Forebay is owned by El Dorado Irrigation District (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was El Dorado Forebay built?
El Dorado Forebay was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 El Dorado Forebay?
El Dorado Forebay serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is El Dorado Forebay?
El Dorado Forebay has a dam height of 91 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 El Dorado Forebay last inspected?
El Dorado Forebay was last inspected on August 23, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.