Murphys Forebay West
Key Takeaway
Murphys Forebay West is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 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 | 67 ft (taller than 71.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 316 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 57 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 840 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00420 |
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
Utica Water & Power Authority
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Andrew Cademartori
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 80 ftMurphys Afterbay
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 43 ftForest Meadows
Calaveras, CA
Low Hazard 60 ftMurphys Wastewater
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 24 ftStanislaus Forebay East
Tuolumne, CA
Low Hazard 55 ftHunters
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 59 ftRoss
Calaveras, CA
Low Hazard 44 ftTanner
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Murphys Forebay West?
Murphys Forebay West 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 Murphys Forebay West?
Murphys Forebay West is owned by Utica Water & Power Authority (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Murphys Forebay West built?
Murphys Forebay West was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Murphys Forebay West?
Murphys Forebay West 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 Murphys Forebay West?
Murphys Forebay West has a dam height of 67 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 Murphys Forebay West last inspected?
Murphys Forebay West was last inspected on May 31, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.