Bradbury Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Situated in the picturesque city of Cachuma Village in Santa Barbara, California, Bradbury (also known as Cachuma) stands as a Federal-owned structure designated for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1953, this earth-type dam on the Santa Ynez River boasts a staggering height of 279 feet and a storage capacity of 206,900 acre-feet. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Bradbury plays a crucial role in supplying water for irrigation and other essential needs in the region.

Over the years, Bradbury has undergone modifications to enhance its structural integrity, including updates to its foundation, hydraulic systems, and seismic features in 2000. With a spillway width of 200 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 159,500 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle high hazard potential situations. Despite its very high risk assessment rating, the dam's condition assessment remains unavailable, underscoring the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and reliability.

With its stunning location and vital role in water resource management, Bradbury exemplifies the intersection of engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of this iconic structure sheds light on the critical importance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Years Modified

2000 - Foundation, 2000 - Hydraulic, 2000 - Other, 2000 - Seismic, 2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

3350

Dam Height

279

River Or Stream

SANTA YNEZ RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3090

Hydraulic Height

201

Drainage Area

417

Nid Storage

206900

Structural Height

279

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

279
       
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.