Upper Letts
Key Takeaway
Upper Letts is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 21 ft (taller than 17.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 212 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 319 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 319 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | CA10302 |
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
USDA FS
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Letts?
Upper Letts 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 Upper Letts?
Upper Letts is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Letts built?
Upper Letts was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Letts?
Upper Letts serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Letts?
Upper Letts has a dam height of 21 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 Letts last inspected?
Upper Letts was last inspected on June 23, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.