Summary
Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 148 feet, with a hydraulic height of 130 feet, and a length of 570 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters. The dam has a storage capacity of 3100 acre-feet, primarily sourced from the Carmel River, and covers a surface area of 67 acres with a drainage area of 44.9 square miles.
Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Los Padres is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory. The last inspection in March 2020 revealed no major concerns, with an inspection frequency of one year to monitor its structural integrity and performance. In the event of emergencies, there are protocols in place, although details on emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures are not explicitly outlined in the available data.
Los Padres plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water supply for the local community, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in the region. The dam's location on the Carmel River and its proximity to the Sacramento District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlight its significance in protecting the area from potential flooding events. With the support of state agencies and regular inspections, Los Padres continues to serve its purpose effectively, ensuring the safety and security of the residents and environment it safeguards.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
148 |
River Or Stream |
Carmel River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
67 |
Hydraulic Height |
130 |
Drainage Area |
44.9 |
Nid Storage |
3100 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
148 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Carmel River Camp
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Sulphur Springs Camp
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Clover Basin Camp
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Buckskin Flat Camp
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Little Pines Camp
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Pat Springs Camp
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Los Padres
Headwaters North Fork Little Sur To Boy Scout Camp
Boy Scout Camp To Confluence With Mainstem Little Sur
Headwaters South Fork Little Sur To Confluence With Mainstem Little Sur