La Tuna Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

La Tuna Debris Basin in Los Angeles, California, is a vital structure managed by the local government for debris control and flood risk reduction along the La Tuna Canyon.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, serving a drainage area of 5.3 square miles. With a storage capacity of 207 acre-feet, this basin plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential hazards, given its high hazard potential designation.

Despite its age, La Tuna Debris Basin has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, with the last inspection conducted in December 2020. The structure's risk management measures and emergency action plan are up-to-date, ensuring that it meets regulatory guidelines set by the Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams. With Congressman Adam B. Schiff representing the area, the basin remains under local government jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, emphasizing the importance of its continued maintenance to protect the community from potential inundation events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate La Tuna Debris Basin not only for its functional design but also for its role in mitigating the impact of extreme weather events in the region. As a critical piece of infrastructure in flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to manage water resources and protect communities from the ever-present threat of natural disasters. Its strategic location and operational readiness highlight the importance of proactive measures in ensuring the safety and resilience of the built environment in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

654

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

La Tuna Canyon

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

5.3

Nid Storage

207

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

47
       
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.