Lytton Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lytton, also known as Lytton Lake, is a privately owned dam located in Sonoma County, California, near the city of Healdsburg.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1956, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 410 acre-feet, Lytton primarily serves the purposes of irrigation and water supply for the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.

Situated on the Tr Russian River, Lytton plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, providing essential support for agricultural irrigation and local water supply needs. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of September 2017. Regular inspections are conducted to maintain the dam's safety and integrity, with the last inspection taking place in January 2020. Although no major modifications or risk management measures have been reported, the dam's Emergency Action Plan is kept updated to ensure preparedness in case of emergencies.

With its strategic location and vital role in water management, Lytton serves as a key infrastructure asset in Sonoma County. The dam's presence contributes to the sustainable use of water resources, supporting the agricultural and domestic water needs of the local community. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the proper maintenance and operation of dams like Lytton are essential for ensuring a reliable and secure water supply for current and future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

Tr Russian Rv

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

30.2

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

410

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.