San Gabriel
Key Takeaway
San Gabriel is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1937 and is 89 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 | 320 ft (taller than 98.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 45.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 203 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 297,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1937 (89 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00200 |
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
Los Angeles County Flood Control District
Local Government
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High Hazard 266 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of San Gabriel?
San Gabriel 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 San Gabriel?
San Gabriel is owned by Los Angeles County Flood Control District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was San Gabriel built?
San Gabriel was completed in 1937, making it 89 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 San Gabriel?
San Gabriel serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is San Gabriel?
San Gabriel has a dam height of 320 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 San Gabriel last inspected?
San Gabriel was last inspected on September 12, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.