Lower Sunset Debris Basin
Key Takeaway
Lower Sunset Debris Basin is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 86 ft (taller than 78.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 379 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 37 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01161 |
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
Los Angeles County Department Of Public Works
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 46 ftBrand Debris Basin
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High Hazard 99 ftReservoir No. 5
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High Hazard 36 ftHeadworks Reservoir East
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Low Hazard 32 ftHeadworks Reservoir West
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Low Hazard 32 ftLa Tuna Debris Basin
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High Hazard 47 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Sunset Debris Basin?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin 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 Sunset Debris Basin?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin is owned by Los Angeles County Department Of Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Sunset Debris Basin built?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Sunset Debris Basin?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin 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 Lower Sunset Debris Basin?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin has a dam height of 86 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 Sunset Debris Basin last inspected?
Lower Sunset Debris Basin was last inspected on December 1, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.