Peters Canyon
Key Takeaway
Peters Canyon is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1932 and is 94 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 54 ft (taller than 62.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 580 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Year Completed | 1932 (94 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00746 |
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
County of Orange
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lower Peters Canyon Retarding Basin
Orange, CA
High Hazard 52 ftEastfoot Retarding Basin
Orange, CA
High Hazard 39 ftVilla Park
Orange, CA
High Hazard 118 ftSantiago Creek
Orange, CA
High Hazard 136 ftOrchard Estates Retarding Basin
Orange, CA
High Hazard 21 ftRattlesnake Canyon
Orange, CA
High Hazard 79 ftWalnut Canyon
Orange, CA
High Hazard 187 ftHicks Canyon Retention Basin
Orange, CA
Low Hazard 60 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Peters Canyon?
Peters Canyon 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 Peters Canyon?
Peters Canyon is owned by County of Orange (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Peters Canyon built?
Peters Canyon was completed in 1932, making it 94 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 Peters Canyon?
Peters Canyon serves the following purposes: Other, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Peters Canyon?
Peters Canyon has a dam height of 54 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 Peters Canyon last inspected?
Peters Canyon was last inspected on February 23, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.