North Fork Dam
Key Takeaway
North Fork Dam is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is debris control. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 143 ft (taller than 89.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 620 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 19.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 14.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 280 acres |
| Drainage Area | 342 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 65,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10110 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
USACE - Sacramento District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 44 ftHalsey Forebay No. 1
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High Hazard 40 ftWinchester
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Significant Hazard 39 ftLakewood
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High Hazard 33 ftWise Forebay
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High Hazard 20 ftRock Creek
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High Hazard 36 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Fork Dam?
North Fork Dam 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 North Fork Dam?
North Fork Dam is owned by USACE - Sacramento District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Fork Dam built?
North Fork Dam 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 North Fork Dam?
North Fork Dam serves the following purposes: Debris Control, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is North Fork Dam?
North Fork Dam has a dam height of 143 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 North Fork Dam last inspected?
North Fork Dam was last inspected on August 6, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.