Upper Gorge
Key Takeaway
Upper Gorge is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is other.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 44 ft (taller than 52.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 37 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 26 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 457 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00095 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
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
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Gorge?
Upper Gorge is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Upper Gorge?
Upper Gorge 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 Upper Gorge built?
Upper Gorge was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Upper Gorge?
Upper Gorge serves the following purposes: Other, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Gorge?
Upper Gorge has a dam height of 44 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 Upper Gorge last inspected?
Upper Gorge was last inspected on November 17, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.