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The Los Angeles River watershed covers 824 square miles, of which, approximately 364 square miles are covered by forest or open space land including the area near the headwaters, which originate in the Santa Monica, Santa Susana, and San Gabriel Mountains. The remaining area is highly urbanized including the San Fernando Valley and portions of the City of Los Angeles. Major flood events at the turn of the century initiated flood control projects in the watershed that led to dramatic alterations of the natural hydrology of the river. Presently, most of the Los Angeles River, and its major tributaries, are concrete lined with numerous dams, spreading grounds, and other hydraulic control structures.

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