Stough Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stough Debris Basin, located in Burbank, California, along the Stough Canyon stream, serves as a crucial infrastructure for debris control and flood risk reduction in the region.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the local government, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 46 feet and has a hydraulic height of 33.5 feet. Completed in 1961, the dam has a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres, with a drainage area of 1.7 square miles.

With a hazard potential classified as high, Stough Debris Basin undergoes regular inspections, with the latest assessment in 2017 deeming its condition as satisfactory. The dam plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential debris flows and flooding events. Serving as a testament to effective infrastructure management, the Stough Debris Basin stands as a vital component of the local community's resilience against water-related hazards.

Ensuring the safety and functionality of Stough Debris Basin is paramount, as it not only protects the residents of Burbank but also contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With a focus on debris control and flood risk reduction, this essential structure continues to play a crucial role in mitigating the potential impacts of natural disasters and safeguarding the community's well-being.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

567

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

Stough Canyon

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

33.5

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

67

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

46
       
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.