Lopez Dam
Key Takeaway
Lopez Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is debris control. 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 | 50 ft (taller than 59.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 209 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 34 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 32,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10020 |
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
Pacoima
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High Hazard 365 ftHansen Recreational Lake
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Low Hazard 50 ftWilson Debris Basin
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High Hazard 50 ftHansen Dam
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High Hazard 97 ftSchoolhouse Debris Basin
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High Hazard 38 ftLower San Fernando
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High Hazard 125 ftLos Angeles Reservoir
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High Hazard 130 ftLower Van Norman Bypass
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Low Hazard 78 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lopez Dam?
Lopez 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 Lopez Dam?
Lopez 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 Lopez Dam built?
Lopez Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Lopez Dam?
Lopez Dam serves the following purposes: Debris Control, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lopez Dam?
Lopez Dam has a dam height of 50 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 Lopez Dam last inspected?
Lopez Dam was last inspected on February 27, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.