Lauro Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lauro, located in Santa Barbara, California, is a federal-owned Earth dam completed in 1951 with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 137 feet and stretching 540 feet in length, it holds a maximum storage capacity of 855 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 26 acres. The dam's hydraulic height is 102 feet, with an uncontrolled spillway width of 3 feet, and a maximum discharge rate of 86 cubic feet per second.

Despite being marked as having a high hazard potential, Lauro has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam underwent modifications in 2006 to enhance its seismic resilience. The Bureau of Reclamation oversees the operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects of the dam. It is situated along Diablo Creek and is managed by the Los Angeles District. With its critical role in water supply, Lauro represents a significant infrastructure asset in the region.

Ensuring the safety and maintenance of Lauro is essential for water resource management in the area. Although its condition assessment is currently not available, regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures are in place. The presence of reliable agencies like the Bureau of Reclamation underscores the commitment to safeguarding this vital water supply structure. As climate change impacts water resources, the resilience of dams like Lauro becomes increasingly crucial in securing water availability for communities in California.

Years Modified

2006 - Seismic

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

137

River Or Stream

DIABLO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

102

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

855

Structural Height

137

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

137
       
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.