Syphon Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Syphon Canyon, also known as Syphon Reservoir, is a hydroelectric facility located in Orange County, California.


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Summary

Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at a height of 59 feet and has a hydraulic height of 52 feet, with a total length of 843 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 578 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes such as hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.

Managed by a public utility, Syphon Canyon is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of September 2017. In the event of an emergency, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, with the last revision made in February 2021.

Situated along the Tr Newport Bay river system, Syphon Canyon plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its strategic location and efficient operation, this facility contributes to the sustainable utilization of water for both power generation and agricultural needs, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such vital infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

843

Dam Height

59

River Or Stream

Tr Newport Bay

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

52

Nid Storage

578

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

59
       
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.