Stevenson Ranch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stevenson Ranch, located in Los Angeles, California, is home to a critical water resource infrastructure known as the Pico Canyon Creek Dam.


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Summary

Completed in 2004, this earth-built dam stands at a height of 54 feet and serves primarily for debris control and flood risk reduction purposes. With a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.75 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the local water supply and protecting the surrounding area from potential hazards.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, the Stevenson Ranch Dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in terms of its condition. Regular inspections ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness, with the most recent inspection conducted in December 2020. As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, the dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to responsibly manage water resources in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing risks posed by extreme weather events.

Despite its critical importance, the Stevenson Ranch Dam remains largely unknown to the public, tucked away in the serene surroundings of the Pico Canyon Creek. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of such infrastructure in safeguarding communities against flooding and ensuring water security is essential. By highlighting the significance of structures like the Stevenson Ranch Dam, we can raise awareness about the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need to invest in resilient infrastructure to adapt to a changing climate.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

Pico Canyon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.75

Hydraulic Height

40.5

Drainage Area

5.1

Nid Storage

105

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

54
       
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.