Savage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Savage, also known as Lower Otay Reservoir, is a gravity dam located in Chula Vista, California, along the Otay River.


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Summary

Built in 1919, the dam stands at a height of 149 feet and has a storage capacity of 56,500 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is to supply water to the surrounding areas, making it a vital resource for the community.

The dam is owned and regulated by local government authorities, with the California Department of Water Resources overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Savage continues to play a crucial role in water supply management in San Diego County. Its high risk level underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its safety and functionality.

Savage's location within the Los Angeles District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its strategic significance in the region's water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and addressing the vulnerabilities of dams like Savage will be essential for sustainable water management and climate resilience efforts in California.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

149

River Or Stream

Otay River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1110

Hydraulic Height

143.8

Drainage Area

101.2

Nid Storage

56500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

149
       
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.