Carbon Canyon Dam
Key Takeaway
Carbon Canyon Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 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 | 99 ft (taller than 82% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 2,610 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 12.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 19 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 36,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10017 |
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
USACE - Los Angeles District
Federal Government
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High Hazard 87 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Carbon Canyon Dam?
Carbon Canyon Dam 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 Carbon Canyon Dam?
Carbon Canyon Dam is owned by USACE - Los Angeles District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Carbon Canyon Dam built?
Carbon Canyon Dam 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 Carbon Canyon Dam?
Carbon Canyon Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Carbon Canyon Dam?
Carbon Canyon Dam has a dam height of 99 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 Carbon Canyon Dam last inspected?
Carbon Canyon Dam was last inspected on June 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.