Sycamore Canyon
Key Takeaway
Sycamore Canyon is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 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 | 40 ft (taller than 46.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,520 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 890 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 85 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1981 (45 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01266 |
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
Ventura County Watershed Protection District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Sinaloa Lake
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High Hazard 30 ftWood Ranch
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High Hazard 146 ftLang Creek Detention Basin
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High Hazard 67 ftRunkle
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High Hazard 41 ftLindero
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Low Hazard 19 ftLas Llajas
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High Hazard 96 ftPotrero
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High Hazard 40 ftWestlake Reservoir
Los Angeles, CA
High Hazard 158 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sycamore Canyon?
Sycamore 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 Sycamore Canyon?
Sycamore Canyon is owned by Ventura County Watershed Protection District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sycamore Canyon built?
Sycamore Canyon was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Sycamore Canyon?
Sycamore Canyon serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sycamore Canyon?
Sycamore Canyon has a dam height of 40 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 Sycamore Canyon last inspected?
Sycamore Canyon was last inspected on August 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.