Hansen Dam
Key Takeaway
Hansen Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 97 ft (taller than 81.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 10,475 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 45.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 152 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 101,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10019 |
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
Nearby Dams
Hansen Recreational Lake
Los Angeles, CA
Low Hazard 50 ftLopez Dam
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High Hazard 50 ftGreen Verdugo
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High Hazard 118 ftLa Tuna Debris Basin
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High Hazard 47 ftReservoir No. 5
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High Hazard 36 ftPacoima
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High Hazard 365 ftWilson Debris Basin
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High Hazard 50 ftSchoolhouse Debris Basin
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High Hazard 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hansen Dam?
Hansen 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 Hansen Dam?
Hansen 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 Hansen Dam built?
Hansen Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Hansen Dam?
Hansen 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 Hansen Dam?
Hansen Dam has a dam height of 97 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 Hansen Dam last inspected?
Hansen Dam was last inspected on November 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.