Klau Dam (Blm) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Klau Dam, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1961, this dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 45 feet and spans 300 feet in length, creating a surface area of 2.2 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being deemed not rated in condition assessment, Klau Dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The last inspection was conducted in August 2015. With a maximum discharge capacity of 10,000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will be intrigued by the strategic location and functional significance of Klau Dam in sustaining water supply for the surrounding area.

Under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management, Klau Dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in California. With its modest size and capacity, this dam contributes to the overall water supply infrastructure in the region, showcasing the importance of such structures in ensuring sustainable water resources amidst changing climatic conditions. Klau Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in water supply management and highlights the collaborative efforts of Federal agencies in maintaining and regulating these vital structures.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

NO NAME

Surface Area

2.2

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

45
       
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.