South Fork Diversion

South Fork Feather River· Plumas, California· Built 1961· Concrete· 60 ft tall
Low Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

South Fork Diversion is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 60 ft (taller than 67.2% in CA)
Dam Length228 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage87 acre-ft
Normal Storage87 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area38 sq mi
Max Discharge20,700 cfs
Year Completed1961 (65 years old)
NID IDCA00270

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 3, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Safety of Dams

Ownership

South Feather Water and Power Agency

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of South Fork Diversion?

South Fork Diversion is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates South Fork Diversion?

South Fork Diversion is owned by South Feather Water and Power Agency (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was South Fork Diversion built?

South Fork Diversion was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 South Fork Diversion?

South Fork Diversion serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is South Fork Diversion?

South Fork Diversion has a dam height of 60 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 South Fork Diversion last inspected?

South Fork Diversion was last inspected on June 3, 2022. 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.