Alisal Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alisal Creek, also known as Alisal Lake, is a privately owned water resource located in Solvang, California.


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Summary

This dam was completed in 1971 and serves multiple purposes such as irrigation, recreation, and water supply with a storage capacity of 2342 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 93 feet and has a hydraulic height of 78 feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety and regulation, Alisal Creek is a significant feature in the region's water infrastructure. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition according to the latest assessment in September 2017. The dam's location in Santa Barbara County, with a drainage area of 7.8 square miles, highlights its importance in water management and supply for the local community.

Alisal Creek offers a vital water supply for the area and plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural and recreational activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of structures like Alisal Creek become increasingly important in ensuring sustainable water supply and addressing potential hazards. With regular inspections and enforcement measures in place, Alisal Creek remains a key asset in the region's water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

93

River Or Stream

Alisal Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

97

Hydraulic Height

78

Drainage Area

7.8

Nid Storage

2342

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

93
       
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.