Dams
  Goldsborough Creek | Matilija Dam | Hawaii Dam Break Analysis | Piedra Liza Dam

Matilija Dam is located on Matilija Creek, a major tributary to the Ventura River in Southern California.  The dam was constructed in 1946 for water supply and flood control, but has since largely filled in with sediment and no longer provides significant benefit for flood control.  Ventura County, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) and the Corps of Engineers (Corps) are investigating the dam to improve fish passage and habitat, restore the natural sediment regime and enhance recreational opportunities.  The Corps contracted with Tetra Tech, Inc. to prepare preliminary plans and cost estimates for removal of the sediment in the reservoir via a slurry pipeline or conveyor in conjunction with removal of the dam, and also to evaluate the potential significant environmental impacts for this and several other dam removal alternatives identified by the USBR.  Additionally, beneficial uses of the sediment were identified, including beach nourishment and habitat enhancement.   This study effort was incorporated into the Bureau’s Initial Appraisal Report. The total cost of the project developed including dam removal is estimated at $162 million.