Rancho Cielito
Key Takeaway
Rancho Cielito is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 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 | 9 ft (taller than 1.7% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 110 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00761 |
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
Rolling Ridge Ranch
Private
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High Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Rancho Cielito?
Rancho Cielito 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 Rancho Cielito?
Rancho Cielito is owned by Rolling Ridge Ranch (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Rancho Cielito built?
Rancho Cielito was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Rancho Cielito?
Rancho Cielito 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 Rancho Cielito?
Rancho Cielito has a dam height of 9 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 Rancho Cielito last inspected?
Rancho Cielito was last inspected on May 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.