Sheep Canyon

San Bernardino, California· Built 1941· Timber Crib· 35 ft tall
Significant Hazard Debris Control Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Sheep Canyon is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1941 and is 85 years old. Its primary use is debris control. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 35 ft (taller than 38.2% in CA)
Dam Length415 ft
Dam TypeTimber Crib
Year Completed1941 (85 years old)
NID IDCA10394

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: September 28, 2015
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USDA FS

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sheep Canyon?

Sheep Canyon is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Sheep Canyon?

Sheep Canyon is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sheep Canyon built?

Sheep Canyon was completed in 1941, making it 85 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 Sheep Canyon?

Sheep Canyon serves the following purposes: Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Sheep Canyon?

Sheep Canyon has a dam height of 35 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 Sheep Canyon last inspected?

Sheep Canyon was last inspected on September 28, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.