Sierra Madre Villa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sierra Madre Villa is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in Pasadena, California, specifically along the Sierra Madre Canal.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1958, serves primarily for debris control and flood risk reduction purposes. With a height of 50 feet and a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet, it plays a significant role in managing water flow and preventing potential hazards in the region. The dam is under the jurisdiction and regulation of the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite its age, Sierra Madre Villa Dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition during its last evaluation in 2017. It has a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential risks to the surrounding communities. With a solid track record of enforcement and compliance with regulatory standards, the dam continues to effectively mitigate flood risks and protect the local area from potential water-related disasters. Additionally, its strategic location and design contribute to its vital role in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of downstream areas.

Sierra Madre Villa Dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the Los Angeles County water management system, showcasing the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding water resources and mitigating flood risks. With its solid construction and regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Sierra Madre Villa play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

906

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

Sierra Madre Can

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

36.5

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

109

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

50
       
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.