Lower Franklin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Located in Beverly Hills, California, Lower Franklin, also known as Franklin Canyon Reservoir, is a vital water storage facility managed by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1922, this Earth-type dam stands at 103 feet high and has a storage capacity of 920 acre-feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the Franklin Canyon stream. With a surface area of 22 acres and a drainage area of 1.12 square miles, Lower Franklin plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Maintained by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Lower Franklin is regulated, permitted, and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition assessment as of September 2017 indicates satisfactory performance. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, last revised in March 2021. With its historical significance and essential role in flood risk management, Lower Franklin stands as a testament to effective water resource management in the region.

Despite its age, Lower Franklin continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, showcasing the importance of maintaining infrastructure for climate resilience. With its strategic location in the heart of Los Angeles County, this reservoir serves as a critical water storage facility for the local community, reflecting a commitment to sustainable water management practices. As climate change challenges intensify, Lower Franklin stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources and mitigate potential risks for future generations.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

103

River Or Stream

Franklin Canyon

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

91.8

Drainage Area

1.12

Nid Storage

920

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

103
       
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.