Garvey Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Garvey Reservoir, located in Monterey Park, California, is a vital water supply structure managed by the public utility sector.


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Summary

With a height of 160 feet and a hydraulic height of 153 feet, this earth dam was completed in 1954 and has a storage capacity of 1610 acre-feet. The reservoir serves as a critical source of water for the surrounding area, particularly during times of drought or increased water demand.

Maintained by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Garvey Reservoir is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's condition assessment in 2017 reported it as satisfactory, although its hazard potential is classified as high. Regular inspections and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks and ensure the reservoir's continued operation for water supply purposes. Additionally, the reservoir is situated along the Tr Rio Hondo river, further highlighting its importance in the local water resource infrastructure.

Garvey Reservoir's historical significance, coupled with its strategic location in Los Angeles County, makes it a key player in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can appreciate the engineering marvel that is Garvey Reservoir, as it continues to provide essential water supply services while adhering to rigorous regulatory standards for safety and environmental protection.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

5164

Dam Height

160

River Or Stream

Tr Rio Hondo

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Hydraulic Height

153

Nid Storage

1610

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

160
       
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.