Sawpit Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sawpit is a vital structure located in Monrovia, California, designed for flood risk reduction along Sawpit Creek.


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Summary

This arch-type dam stands at an impressive height of 150 feet, with a hydraulic height of 123 feet, and a length of 527 feet. Completed in 1927, Sawpit has a storage capacity of 406 acre-feet, serving the dual purposes of flood risk reduction and water supply for the region. Despite its age, Sawpit remains in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2017, with a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose.

Managed by the local government, Sawpit is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and Safety of Dams agency. This critical infrastructure plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding events, with regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. With Judy Chu (D) representing the area in Congress, Sawpit serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage water resources and mitigate the impact of climate change on local ecosystems. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sawpit presents a fascinating case study in infrastructure management and adaptation to environmental challenges in California's dynamic landscape.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

527

Dam Height

150

River Or Stream

Sawpit Creek

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Hydraulic Height

123

Drainage Area

3.27

Nid Storage

406

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

150
       
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.