Gibraltar Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gibraltar Reservoir, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a key water resource managed by the local government for flood risk reduction and water supply purposes.


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Summary

This arch-type dam, completed in 1920 with a height of 169 feet and a storage capacity of 9998 acre-feet, plays a critical role in managing the flow of the Santa Ynez River. The dam's high hazard potential is mitigated by regular inspections and a satisfactory condition assessment, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community.

The Gibraltar Reservoir, with its 600-foot length and 335-acre surface area, serves as a vital water storage facility in the region. Under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams program, the dam undergoes regular inspections to uphold safety standards. The last inspection in June 2020 reaffirmed its satisfactory condition, providing assurance to residents and stakeholders reliant on its flood control and water supply functions.

Managed by the local government and situated in the picturesque city of Solvang, Gibraltar Reservoir stands as a testament to effective water resource management in California. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location along the Santa Ynez River, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from flood risks and ensuring a reliable water supply. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the resilience and maintenance of structures like Gibraltar Reservoir are essential for sustainable water management in the region.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

169

River Or Stream

Santa Ynez Rv

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

335

Hydraulic Height

167

Drainage Area

214

Nid Storage

9998

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

169
       
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.