Sawpit
Key Takeaway
Sawpit is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 150 ft (taller than 90% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 527 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 406 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00196 |
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 Department Of Public Works
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Sawpit Debris Basin
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High Hazard 82 ftBig Santa Anita
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High Hazard 225 ftSanta Anita Debris Basin
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Low Hazard 56 ftSierra Madre
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High Hazard 69 ftSanta Fe Dam
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High Hazard 92 ftCogswell
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High Hazard 266 ftBailey Debris Basin
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High Hazard 43 ftMorris S. Jones
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High Hazard 49 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sawpit?
Sawpit 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 Sawpit?
Sawpit is owned by Los Angeles County Department Of Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sawpit built?
Sawpit was completed in 1927, making it 99 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 Sawpit?
Sawpit serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sawpit?
Sawpit has a dam height of 150 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 Sawpit last inspected?
Sawpit was last inspected on November 4, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.