Chili Bar
Key Takeaway
Chili Bar is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 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 | 126 ft (taller than 86.9% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 375 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 597 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 100,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00418 |
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
Sacramento Municipal Utility District
Public Utility
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What is the hazard classification of Chili Bar?
Chili Bar 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 Chili Bar?
Chili Bar is owned by Sacramento Municipal Utility District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chili Bar built?
Chili Bar was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Chili Bar?
Chili Bar 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 Chili Bar?
Chili Bar has a dam height of 126 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 Chili Bar last inspected?
Chili Bar was last inspected on August 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.