Tahchevah Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tahchevah is a vital earth dam located in Palm Springs, California, designed primarily for debris control and flood risk reduction along Tachevah Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this structure stands at a height of 42 feet with a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet. Its high hazard potential is closely monitored through regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of September 2017.

Operated by the local government, Tahchevah plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Riverside County. Positioned within the Los Angeles District, this dam not only serves its primary purpose but also contributes to the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the region. With its location in the picturesque city of Palm Springs, Tahchevah stands as a testament to effective water resource management and infrastructure development in California.

The dam's presence underscores the importance of maintaining and regulating water infrastructure for climate resilience. With state oversight and permitting, Tahchevah continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding communities from flooding events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Tahchevah is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices that benefit both the environment and local populations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

3600

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

Tachevah Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Nid Storage

650

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.