Nacimiento
Key Takeaway
Nacimiento is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 210 ft (taller than 95.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,630 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 470.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 377.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5,400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 330 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 102,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00812 |
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
Monterey County Water Resources Agency
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nacimiento?
Nacimiento 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 Nacimiento?
Nacimiento is owned by Monterey County Water Resources Agency (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nacimiento built?
Nacimiento was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Nacimiento?
Nacimiento serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nacimiento?
Nacimiento has a dam height of 210 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 Nacimiento last inspected?
Nacimiento was last inspected on October 18, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.