Rubio Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Situated in Altadena, California, the Rubio Debris Basin stands as a critical infrastructure managed by the local government for debris control and flood risk reduction along Rubio Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1944, this earth dam structure boasts a height of 64 feet and a hydraulic height of 50.3 feet, with a capacity to store 44 acre-feet of water. With a drainage area of 1.71 square miles, the basin plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential hazards, as evidenced by its "High" hazard potential rating.

Managed by the Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams division, the Rubio Debris Basin undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite its age, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory during the latest inspection in September 2017, highlighting its robust condition and operational readiness. With a historical context dating back to World War II, the Rubio Debris Basin continues to serve as a vital component in the regional water resource management system, reflecting the ongoing commitment to safety and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.

As climate change continues to pose threats of intensified storms and flooding events, the Rubio Debris Basin stands as a testament to proactive infrastructure planning and management. With its strategic location along Rubio Creek and its capacity to mitigate debris flow and flood risks, this essential structure plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the community of Altadena and the broader Los Angeles County. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of the Rubio Debris Basin underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and the critical role of infrastructure in adapting to a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

64

River Or Stream

Rubio Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

50.3

Drainage Area

1.71

Nid Storage

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

64
       
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.