Santiago Creek
Key Takeaway
Santiago Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1933 and is 93 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 | 136 ft (taller than 88.2% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,425 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 25.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 650 acres |
| Drainage Area | 63 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1933 (93 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00298 |
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
Serrano Water District and Irvine Ranch Water District
Public Utility
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High Hazard 21 ftLower Peters Canyon Retarding Basin
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High Hazard 79 ftWalnut Canyon
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High Hazard 187 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Santiago Creek?
Santiago Creek 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 Santiago Creek?
Santiago Creek is owned by Serrano Water District and Irvine Ranch Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Santiago Creek built?
Santiago Creek was completed in 1933, making it 93 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 Santiago Creek?
Santiago Creek 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 Santiago Creek?
Santiago Creek has a dam height of 136 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 Santiago Creek last inspected?
Santiago Creek was last inspected on April 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.