Hansen Dam, also known as Hansen Reservoir, is a Federal-owned Earth dam in Los Angeles, California, constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1940 for flood risk reduction along the Tujunga Wash. With a height of 97 feet and a storage capacity of 44,990 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting downstream cities like Los Angeles, Burbank, and Glendale from potential flooding. Despite its high hazard potential, USACE has implemented various risk management measures to ensure public safety, including regular inspections, monitoring, and maintenance.

A risk assessment conducted in 2008 identified Hansen Dam as having a moderate risk level due to potential dam instability, structural concerns, and the possibility of embankment erosion during extreme flood events. The dam's failure could have significant consequences on over 300,000 people and cause substantial economic impacts. To mitigate these risks, USACE collaborates closely with state and local emergency managers, conducts emergency exercises, and regularly updates its Emergency Action Plan. Additionally, the agency engages with local communities to enhance flood preparedness and communication strategies.

Looking ahead, USACE plans to reevaluate and update the project risk assessment in 2022 to ensure the most accurate risk response measures are in place. By continuing to monitor and maintain Hansen Dam, implementing proactive risk communication strategies, and working closely with stakeholders, USACE aims to safeguard the surrounding communities and infrastructure from the potential impacts of dam failure and extreme flooding events.