Sheep Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sheep Canyon is a Timber Crib type dam located in San Bernardino, California, owned and operated by the Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1941 for the primary purpose of debris control, this dam stands at a height of 35 feet with a length of 415 feet. The dam has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score of 3, indicating the need for careful monitoring and management.

In 2012, Sheep Canyon underwent hydraulic modifications to improve its functionality and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is primarily constructed with stone core and soil foundation. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further evaluation and maintenance. With its strategic location and critical role in debris control, Sheep Canyon serves as an important water resource structure in the region.

Although Sheep Canyon has not been inspected since September 2015, its risk management measures and emergency preparedness remain unspecified. As a federally-owned structure, Sheep Canyon falls under the jurisdiction of the USDA FS and the Los Angeles District. With its intriguing history, structural features, and environmental significance, Sheep Canyon is a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the intersection of infrastructure and natural ecosystems in California.

Years Modified

2012 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

35

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.