Big Creek Dam No. 4
Key Takeaway
Big Creek Dam No. 4 is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1913 and is 113 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 75 ft (taller than 74.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 287 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 60 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 107 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1913 (113 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00430 |
Safety Information
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?
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. 4?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 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 Big Creek Dam No. 4?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 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. 4 built?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 was completed in 1913, making it 113 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. 4?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 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 Big Creek Dam No. 4?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 has a dam height of 75 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. 4 last inspected?
Big Creek Dam No. 4 was last inspected on September 21, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.