Hunters

Mill Creek· Calaveras, California· Built 1927· Concrete· 59 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Hunters is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 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 59 ft (taller than 66.7% in CA)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage260 acre-ft
Normal Storage253 acre-ft
Surface Area299 acres
Drainage Area12 sq mi
Max Discharge3,000 cfs
Year Completed1927 (99 years old)
NID IDCA00423

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: May 31, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Safety of Dams

Ownership

Utica Water & Power Authority

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hunters?

Hunters 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 Hunters?

Hunters is owned by Utica Water & Power Authority (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hunters built?

Hunters was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Hunters?

Hunters 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 Hunters?

Hunters has a dam height of 59 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 Hunters last inspected?

Hunters was last inspected on May 31, 2023. 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.