Lauro Dam, Safety of Dams Project
Lauro Dam is located north of Foothill Road near San Roque Road in Santa Barbara, California.
Phase: Environmental Restoration
Background: An earthquake fault, possibly associated with the Mission Ridge - Arroyo Parida - Santa Ana system of faults, lies within a portion of the dam foundation. Recent analysis indicates that movement could occur on this fault as the result of a large magnitude earthquake. Maximum displacement is estimated to be 3 to 6 feet. Movement along the foundation fault could cause the dam crest to crack and the water to erode and breach the embankment.
A modification of the dam was completed in January 2007. The modification included installation of sand and gravel layers within the downstream portion of the dam that makes the dam resistant to damage from an earthquake.
Status: The primary remaining activity at the dam is to install the habitat mitigation landscaping. This task should be started in early 2008.
For additional information, please contact MP Region Safety of Dams or call 916-978-5537
Last updated on: June 14, 2011