Chatsworth Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chatsworth Reservoir, located in Canoga Park, California, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1918, this Earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a capacity of 9,886 acre-feet. With a surface area of 607 acres and a drainage area of 5.4 square miles, Chatsworth plays a crucial role in providing water to the surrounding region.

This reservoir on the Los Angeles River is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and compliance. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, Chatsworth's condition assessment is rated as satisfactory. Regular inspections ensure its structural integrity, with the last assessment conducted in February 2021. The dam's Emergency Action Plan is updated and meets guidelines, ensuring preparedness in case of any unforeseen events.

Chatsworth Reservoir not only serves as a reliable water source but also stands as a testament to the importance of proper infrastructure management in mitigating climate-related risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Chatsworth become increasingly crucial in ensuring water security for the community.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

Tr Los Angeles R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

607

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

9886

Hazard Potential

High

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.