Santa Ynez Canyon
Key Takeaway
Santa Ynez Canyon is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 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 | 157 ft (taller than 90.7% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 455 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 356 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00100 |
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
City of Los Angeles Department of Water And Power
Local Government
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High Hazard 103 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Santa Ynez Canyon?
Santa Ynez 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 Santa Ynez Canyon?
Santa Ynez Canyon is owned by City of Los Angeles Department of Water And Power (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Santa Ynez Canyon built?
Santa Ynez Canyon was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Ynez Canyon?
Santa Ynez Canyon serves the following purposes: Other, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Santa Ynez Canyon?
Santa Ynez Canyon has a dam height of 157 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 Ynez Canyon last inspected?
Santa Ynez Canyon was last inspected on November 3, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.