Big Creek Dam No. 1
Key Takeaway
Big Creek Dam No. 1 is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 | 170 ft (taller than 92.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,335 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 89.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 89.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,435 acres |
| Drainage Area | 81 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00434 |
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
Southern California Edison Company
Private
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Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Creek Dam No. 1?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 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 Creek Dam No. 1?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 is owned by Southern California Edison Company (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Creek Dam No. 1 built?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Creek Dam No. 1?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Creek Dam No. 1?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 has a dam height of 170 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 Creek Dam No. 1 last inspected?
Big Creek Dam No. 1 was last inspected on August 1, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.