Carpinteria Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Carpinteria, California, the Carpinteria Creek OS dam is a key water resource managed by the Bureau of Reclamation for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, serving the surrounding area with water supply and irrigation needs. With a spillway width of 14 feet and a high hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in this region.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, the Carpinteria dam is critical for maintaining water levels in the Carpinteria Creek OS and ensuring a reliable water supply for the area. The dam's structural height of 31 feet and maximum discharge of 11 cubic feet per second highlight its importance in regulating water flow and preventing potential flooding events. With a moderate risk assessment rating, efforts to manage and maintain the dam are ongoing to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource.

In collaboration with federal agencies, the Carpinteria dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management and conservation in California. With a primary purpose of irrigation, this earth dam plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture and sustaining the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Carpinteria dam remains a key asset in safeguarding the community against water scarcity and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

13521

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

CARPINTERIA CREEK OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

31
       
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.