Salinas River Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Salinas River Diversion is a key structure located in Monterey, California, designed for flood risk reduction and irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 2009, this public utility plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. With a dam height of 16 feet and a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, the facility is equipped to handle the drainage needs of the Salinas River watershed, covering an area of 4,000 square miles.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and regulated for safety by the Safety of Dams agency, Salinas River Diversion stands as a reliable infrastructure ensuring the protection of surrounding communities from potential flooding events. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted to uphold its operational efficiency. The structure's location at the confluence of the Salinas River signifies its strategic importance in safeguarding the region's water supply and environmental stability.

With Congressman Jimmy Panetta overseeing the district, the Salinas River Diversion continues to serve as a vital asset in California's water management system. By meeting regulatory standards and operating with a focus on risk management, this structure exemplifies the commitment to sustainable water resource practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

2009

Dam Length

140

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Salinas River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

48

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

4000

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.