Big Canyon
Key Takeaway
Big Canyon is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 65 ft (taller than 70.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 3,824 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00891 |
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
City of Newport Beach
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Harbor View
Orange, CA
High Hazard 65 ftSan Joaquin Reservoir
Orange, CA
High Hazard 224 ftSand Canyon
Orange, CA
High Hazard 58 ftVeeh
Orange, CA
High Hazard 37 ftRossmoor No. 1
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High Hazard 36 ftTrabuco Retarding Basin
Orange, CA
High Hazard 18 ftMarshburn Retarding Basin
Orange, CA
High Hazard 27 ftSyphon Canyon
Orange, CA
High Hazard 59 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Canyon?
Big Canyon 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 Big Canyon?
Big Canyon is owned by City of Newport Beach (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Canyon built?
Big Canyon was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 Big Canyon?
Big Canyon serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Canyon?
Big Canyon has a dam height of 65 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 Big Canyon last inspected?
Big Canyon was last inspected on January 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.