Railroad Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Railroad Canyon, located in Lake Elsinore, California, is a significant arch dam on the San Jacinto River, completed in 1928 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

With a height of 94 feet and a hydraulic height of 65.8 feet, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 11,586 acre-feet and a surface area of 525 acres, serving irrigation and water supply needs in the region. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment as of September 2017 was deemed satisfactory, demonstrating its structural integrity and safety measures in place.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and under state regulation, Railroad Canyon undergoes regular inspections to ensure its operational effectiveness and adherence to safety standards. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in February 2021, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management in the event of a potential breach or emergency situation. With a designated inspection frequency and a notable history of compliance, Railroad Canyon stands as a vital water infrastructure asset in Riverside County, playing a crucial role in maintaining water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

94

River Or Stream

San Jacinto River

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

525

Hydraulic Height

65.8

Drainage Area

664

Nid Storage

11586

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

94
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.