Morgan Debris Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Morgan Debris Basin, located in Glendora, California, is a critical infrastructure owned by the local government for debris control in Morgan Canyon Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at 37 feet high and has a maximum storage capacity of 21 acre-feet, serving as a vital defense against debris flow during heavy rainfall events. The basin covers a surface area of 2 acres and has a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, making it an essential structure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Morgan Debris Basin is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. With a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose, the dam is regularly assessed for its condition, with the latest inspection in November 2020 rating it as satisfactory. In case of emergencies, the basin has protocols in place, though details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are yet to be fully disclosed. Overall, Morgan Debris Basin plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of debris flow and safeguarding the local community from potential water-related disasters in the area.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

Morgan Canyon Crk

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

29.1

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
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.