Little Mountain Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Little Mountain is a local government-owned earth dam nestled in San Bernardino, California, specifically designed for flood risk reduction along Devil Can Creek.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1958, stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 17.4 feet and a length of 2100 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23 acres, serving a drainage area of 5.22 square miles. Despite its critical purpose, Little Mountain poses a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory, ensuring its structural integrity in the face of potential emergencies.

Managed and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Little Mountain undergoes regular inspections every 1 year to monitor its performance and safety. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in March 2021, showcasing a commitment to preparedness in case of unforeseen events. The surrounding area, represented by Congressman Pete Aguilar, relies on Little Mountain as a vital safeguard against flooding, highlighting the interconnected relationship between water resources, climate resilience, and community protection.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little Mountain presents a fascinating case study of how infrastructure like dams play a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water management within local communities. Its historical significance, ongoing maintenance, and regulatory oversight underscore the importance of sustainable water resource practices in mitigating natural hazards and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Devil Can Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

17.4

Drainage Area

5.22

Nid Storage

150

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.