Imperial Diversion
Key Takeaway
Imperial Diversion is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 85 ft (taller than 77.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 3,475 ft |
| Dam Type | Buttress |
| Max Storage | 160.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 74.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,756 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 180,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10159 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Imperial Diversion?
Imperial Diversion 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 Imperial Diversion?
Imperial Diversion is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Imperial Diversion built?
Imperial Diversion was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 Imperial Diversion?
Imperial Diversion serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Imperial Diversion?
Imperial Diversion has a dam height of 85 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 Imperial Diversion last inspected?
Imperial Diversion was last inspected on July 8, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.