Paradise
Key Takeaway
Paradise is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 175 ft (taller than 92.9% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,720 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 11.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 244 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00297 |
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
Paradise Irrigation District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Paradise?
Paradise 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 Paradise?
Paradise is owned by Paradise Irrigation District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Paradise built?
Paradise was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Paradise?
Paradise serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Paradise?
Paradise has a dam height of 175 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 Paradise last inspected?
Paradise was last inspected on March 30, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.