Senior Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Ojai, California, Senior Canyon Reservoir, also known as Senior Canyon, is a private water supply reservoir built in 1964 on San Antonio Creek.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is for irrigation and water supply, with a capacity of 73 acre-feet and a height of 76 feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 5 acres and serves the surrounding area with its storage of water.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Senior Canyon is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, yet its condition is assessed as satisfactory. The last inspection in September 2020 confirmed its structural integrity, further supported by the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared to address potential risks associated with the reservoir.

Despite its small size and capacity, Senior Canyon Reservoir plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and supply in Ventura County. Its location along San Antonio Creek and proximity to Ojai highlights its importance in supporting the local water resource infrastructure. Climate and water enthusiasts will find Senior Canyon an intriguing example of a private water supply reservoir that is well-maintained and regulated for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

76

River Or Stream

San Antonio Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

72

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

73

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

76
       
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.