Dry Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dry Canyon is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Saugus, California, owned by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1912, this earth dam stands at a height of 66 feet and has a hydraulic height of 57.4 feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 1,140 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.5 square miles, Dry Canyon plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Dry Canyon is regularly inspected and regulated to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, this dam is equipped to handle emergency situations effectively. The presence of flood risk reduction as its primary purpose underscores the importance of this structure in safeguarding the community from the impacts of extreme weather events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dry Canyon presents an intriguing case study of a historic earth dam that continues to fulfill its intended function in a changing climate. As part of ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risks and ensure resilient water infrastructure, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Dry Canyon are essential for sustainable water management practices in California and beyond.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

66

River Or Stream

Dry Canyon Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

58

Hydraulic Height

57.4

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

1140

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

66
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.