Lake Hodges Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Hodges, located in Rancho Santa Fe, California, is a vital water supply reservoir that plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management.


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Summary

With a dam height of 131 feet and a storage capacity of 37,700 acre-feet, the lake serves as a key source of water for the surrounding area. Its primary purpose is water supply, and it is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety and maintenance.

Constructed in 1918, Lake Hodges has a surface area of 1,317 acres and is fed by the San Dieguito River, with a drainage area of 303 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the lake continues to provide essential water resources for the community. The dam's multi-arch design and hydraulic height of 116 feet contribute to its structural integrity, although regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure its safety.

Managed by local government authorities, Lake Hodges is an integral part of California's water infrastructure, supporting the region's water supply needs. As climate change impacts water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring this reservoir for sustainability and resilience becomes increasingly crucial. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water management, Lake Hodges stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

729

Dam Height

131

River Or Stream

San Dieguito River

Primary Dam Type

Multi-Arch

Surface Area

1317

Hydraulic Height

116

Drainage Area

303

Nid Storage

37700

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

131
       
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.