Junction

South Fork Silver Creek· El Dorado, California· Built 1962· Concrete· 168 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Junction is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 168 ft (taller than 92.3% in CA)
Dam Length525 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage2.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage3.0K acre-ft
Surface Area64 acres
Drainage Area142 sq mi
Max Discharge53,000 cfs
Year Completed1962 (64 years old)
NID IDCA00815

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: August 29, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Safety of Dams

Ownership

Sacramento Municipal Utility District

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Junction?

Junction is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Junction?

Junction is owned by Sacramento Municipal Utility District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Junction built?

Junction was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Junction?

Junction 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 Junction?

Junction has a dam height of 168 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 Junction last inspected?

Junction was last inspected on August 29, 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.