Upper Franklin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

The Upper Franklin Dam, located in Beverly Hills, California, was completed in 1915 and is owned by the National Park Service.


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Summary

It serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife conservation, and water supply. This earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the dam has a controlled spillway and a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the Upper Franklin Dam is not available, but it is considered to have a very high risk level. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in 2017, and it meets safety guidelines.

With its rich history and critical role in water resource management, the Upper Franklin Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its importance in flood control and conservation efforts underscores the need for regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

40

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.