Just after midnight on March 12, 1928, the recently completed St. Francis Dam collapsed, sending a 12-billion gallon wall of water through the narrow canyon and ultimately to the Pacific Ocean. The disaster killed at least 450 people and effectively ended the storied career William Mulholland, who designed the dam and presided at opening ceremonies just two years earlier. The tour of the dam site will be led by geologist Mark Vincent. Mr. Vincent, a graduate of CSULA and an engineering geologist for GeoLogic Associates, will discuss the history and the geology of the area and the engineering and geological issues that led to the dam’s failure. The tour will commence approximately 1.5 miles beneath the dam site. Participants will able to explore remnants of the dam itself – immense blocks of concrete which were washed down the canyon by the force of the water.
Schedule:
9:00 am-11:30 am Tour the St. Francis Dam Area
The dam site is located approximately 1.3 miles up a mostly paved road. There are several parts of the road that are partially covered with gravel, but most of it is easily walkable. There is approximately 120 feet of elevation gain over the course of the 1.3 mile walk. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun screen and hats.
11:30 am-11:45 am Drive to lunch, Optional
11:45 am- 12:45 pm No-host lunch at the Newhall Refinery, Optional
Reservation Information:
- Tour Cost: $25 non-members, $15 members (email hssc@thehssc.org for member discount code- the code may be used for the member and one guest.)
- Go to http://hsscnov12tour.eventbrite.com to purchase your tickets.
You may also order tickets by contacting the HSSC by emailing hssc@thehssc.org or calling 323-222-0546. If not ordering online, please contact HSSC to check availability before mailing a check. - Refunds available until November 5, 2017
- Tour is limited to 25. Spots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Email hssc@thehssc.org with any questions.
Addresses:
St. Francis Dam
Meet at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) Power Plant #2.
Directions to Power Plant #2:
From Los Angeles, take Interstate 5 north to Santa Clarita
Exit Interstate 5 at Magic Mountain Parkway heading east for 1.3 miles.
Turn left (north) on to McBean Parkway for 3.1 miles
Turn right (east) on Copper Hill Drive and drive for 0.3 miles
Turn left (north) on to San Francisquito Canyon Road
Drive 5.9 miles to LADWP Power Plant #2. Parking is limited but there is additional parking approximately 450 feet up the road.
Newhall Refinery
24258 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA 91321
