Pacoima Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pacoima Reservoir, located in San Fernando, California, is a key local government-owned structure designed to address flood risk reduction along Pacoima Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1929, this arch dam stands at a towering height of 365 feet, with a hydraulic height of 300 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 3,777 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 68 acres, serving as a vital water resource for the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated for safety by the Division of Safety of Dams, Pacoima Reservoir plays a crucial role in flood risk mitigation and water supply management. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its most recent assessment in September 2017. With a comprehensive emergency action plan in place, along with regular inspections and enforcement protocols, the reservoir demonstrates a commitment to ensuring public safety and effective risk management.

As a significant structure in the Los Angeles District, Pacoima Reservoir stands as a testament to California's proactive approach to water resource management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and ongoing efforts to uphold safety standards, the reservoir serves as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

365

River Or Stream

Pacoima Creek

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

300

Drainage Area

27.8

Nid Storage

3777

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

365
       
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.