Sycamore Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Sycamore is a vital earth dam located in Riverside, California, along the Sycamore Canyon river stream.


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Summary

Built in 1956 with a height of 63 feet and a hydraulic height of 53 feet, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the region. With a storage capacity of 1150 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 57 acres, Sycamore plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential hazards.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety, Sycamore dam has a high hazard potential but is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of September 2017. The dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in January 2020. Despite its age, Sycamore continues to effectively serve its purpose and protect the surrounding area from flooding events, showcasing the importance of proper infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience.

As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like Sycamore play a crucial role in safeguarding communities from the increasing risks of flooding. With its strategic location and design, Sycamore remains a key asset in Riverside's flood risk reduction efforts. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable water resource management practices and the importance of investing in infrastructure that can withstand the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

Sycamore Canyon

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

10.7

Nid Storage

1150

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

63
       
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.