Sepulveda Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Sepulveda Dam, also known as Sepulveda Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure located in Los Angeles, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this earth dam stands at 57 feet high and stretches over 15,400 feet along the Los Angeles River. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves as a recreational area for the surrounding communities.

A risk assessment conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2017 identified Sepulveda Dam as having a moderate risk level, primarily due to erosion of the embankment foundation and potential mechanical failure of the spillway gates. The dam poses a high hazard potential, with economic consequences estimated to exceed $12 billion in the event of failure. To mitigate these risks, USACE implements various risk management measures, including close collaboration with state and local emergency managers, regular monitoring and maintenance, and ongoing engagement with the community to enhance preparedness and communication.

Despite the identified risks, Sepulveda Dam continues to be closely monitored and maintained by USACE to ensure its structural integrity and reduce potential threats to the surrounding population. By following stringent safety protocols, conducting emergency exercises, and implementing proactive risk communication strategies, the dam remains a vital asset in safeguarding against flood events in the region.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

15440

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

LOS ANGELES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

152

Nid Storage

27563

Outlet Gates

Drum - 0, Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

57
       
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.