Santa Monica Debris Basin
Key Takeaway
Santa Monica Debris Basin is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is debris control. 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 | 102 ft (taller than 82.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 467 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 79 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01134 |
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
Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Santa Monica Debris Basin?
Santa Monica Debris Basin 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 Santa Monica Debris Basin?
Santa Monica Debris Basin is owned by Santa Barbara County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Santa Monica Debris Basin built?
Santa Monica Debris Basin was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Santa Monica Debris Basin?
Santa Monica Debris Basin serves the following purposes: Debris Control, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Santa Monica Debris Basin?
Santa Monica Debris Basin has a dam height of 102 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 Santa Monica Debris Basin last inspected?
Santa Monica Debris Basin was last inspected on April 20, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.