Drinkwater

Offstream· Los Angeles, California· Built 1923· Earth· 105 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Hydroelectric Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Drinkwater is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 105 ft (taller than 83.1% in CA)
Dam Length448 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage92 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1923 (103 years old)
NID IDCA00077

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 19, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Division of Safety of Dams

Ownership

City of Los Angeles Department of Water And Power

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Drinkwater?

Drinkwater is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Drinkwater?

Drinkwater is owned by City of Los Angeles Department of Water And Power (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Drinkwater built?

Drinkwater was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Drinkwater?

Drinkwater serves the following purposes: Other, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Drinkwater?

Drinkwater has a dam height of 105 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 Drinkwater last inspected?

Drinkwater was last inspected on May 19, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.