Santa Fe Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Santa Fe Dam, also known as Santa Fe Reservoir, is a federal-owned earth dam located in El Monte, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, the dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits including recreation and water supply. With a height of 92 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 45,409 acre-feet, Santa Fe Dam plays a crucial role in managing the San Gabriel River's flow and protecting downstream communities.

A risk assessment conducted in 2016 identified Santa Fe Dam as having a moderate risk level, particularly due to potential internal erosion of the embankment and impacts from earthquake events. The downstream cities of Irwindale, Baldwin Park, El Monte, and South El Monte, with a combined population of over 100,000, face significant economic and life-threatening consequences in the event of a dam failure. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) actively engages with state and local emergency managers, conducts emergency exercises, closely monitors the dam's condition, and collaborates with local communities to enhance emergency preparedness and communication.

Through ongoing risk management measures, including regular inspections, monitoring, maintenance, and stakeholder engagement, USACE is dedicated to ensuring the safety and resilience of Santa Fe Dam. By working proactively to address identified risks and enhancing emergency response capabilities, the agency aims to safeguard communities and infrastructure downstream while maintaining the dam's vital flood protection function.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

23800

Dam Height

92

River Or Stream

SAN GABRIEL RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

87

Drainage Area

236

Nid Storage

45409

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

92
       
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.