Alisal Res Nr Solvang Ca Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alisal Reservoir, located near Solvang, California, was constructed in 1954 by the Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District to provide water for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The reservoir has a capacity of 4,600 acre-feet, and its water supply comes from the Santa Ynez River and its tributaries. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Mediterranean climate, with most precipitation occurring in the winter months. The reservoir's water is used for agriculture, particularly vineyards, and also provides recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. Specific surface flow and snowpack providers for the reservoir include the Santa Ynez River, Alamo Pintado Creek, and Zaca Creek. The reservoir plays an important role in the local economy and water management system.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.01%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 565.0 ft
2023-09-28
Maximum 603.0 ft
2023-01-10
Average 593 ft
Dam_Height 93
Hydraulic_Height 78
Drainage_Area 7.8
Year_Completed 1971
Nid_Storage 2342
River_Or_Stream Alisal Creek
Surface_Area 97
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 1100
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 93
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.