Box Canyon
Key Takeaway
Box Canyon is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 220 ft (taller than 95.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 26.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 26.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 430 acres |
| Drainage Area | 126 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 56,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00889 |
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
County of Siskiyou
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Box Canyon?
Box 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 Box Canyon?
Box Canyon is owned by County of Siskiyou (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Box Canyon built?
Box Canyon was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Box Canyon?
Box Canyon serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Box Canyon?
Box Canyon has a dam height of 220 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 Box Canyon last inspected?
Box Canyon was last inspected on August 15, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.