Newell
Key Takeaway
Newell is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 182 ft (taller than 93.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 750 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 9.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 172 acres |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00156 |
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 Santa Cruz
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Fresh Water & Settlement Pond
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Significant Hazard 30 ftOak Site
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Low Hazard 43 ftUpper Howell
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Significant Hazard 36 ftLower Howell
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Significant Hazard 39 ftLake Ranch
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High Hazard 38 ftJames J. Lenihan
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High Hazard 208 ftMill Creek
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High Hazard 76 ftAustrian
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High Hazard 185 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Newell?
Newell 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 Newell?
Newell is owned by City of Santa Cruz (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Newell built?
Newell was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Newell?
Newell serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Newell?
Newell has a dam height of 182 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 Newell last inspected?
Newell was last inspected on May 9, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.