Big Tujunga No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Big Tujunga No.


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Summary

1, also known as Big Tujunga Reservoir, is a significant structure located in Sunland, California, along the Big Tujunga Creek. Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources for the safety of dams, this arch-type dam was completed in 1931 with a height of 220 feet and a storage capacity of 5750 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, although it also serves as a source of water supply for the region.

With a maximum discharge capacity and a hazard potential rated as high, the Big Tujunga No. 1 dam has been inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity. The condition assessment conducted in 2017 deemed it satisfactory, and emergency action plans have been put in place to mitigate risks. Located in Los Angeles County, California, this dam is crucial for managing water resources and reducing flood risks in the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and regulation in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1931

Dam Length

505

Dam Height

220

River Or Stream

Big Tujunga Cr

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

83

Hydraulic Height

190

Drainage Area

81.7

Nid Storage

5750

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

220
       
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.