Lower Franklin
Key Takeaway
Lower Franklin is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 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 | 103 ft (taller than 82.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 920 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00075 |
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
City of Los Angeles Department of Water And Power
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lower Franklin No. 2
Los Angeles, CA
Low Hazard 49 ftGreystone Reservoir
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High Hazard 75 ftUpper Franklin Dam
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Significant Hazard 40 ftStone Canyon
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High Hazard 188 ftUpper Stone Canyon
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Low Hazard 111 ftUpper Hollywood
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Low Hazard 87 ftMulholland
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High Hazard 195 ftSepulveda Dam
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High Hazard 57 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Franklin?
Lower Franklin 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 Lower Franklin?
Lower Franklin 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 Lower Franklin built?
Lower Franklin was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 Lower Franklin?
Lower Franklin serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Franklin?
Lower Franklin has a dam height of 103 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 Lower Franklin last inspected?
Lower Franklin was last inspected on October 4, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.