Virginia Ranch
Key Takeaway
Virginia Ranch is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 152 ft (taller than 90.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 2,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 57.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 975 acres |
| Drainage Area | 72 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 56,700 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00842 |
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
Browns Valley Irrigation District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Virginia Ranch?
Virginia Ranch 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 Virginia Ranch?
Virginia Ranch is owned by Browns Valley Irrigation District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Virginia Ranch built?
Virginia Ranch was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Virginia Ranch?
Virginia Ranch serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Virginia Ranch?
Virginia Ranch has a dam height of 152 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 Virginia Ranch last inspected?
Virginia Ranch was last inspected on August 10, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.