Morena Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morena dam, located in San Diego, California, is a Rockfill dam completed in 1912 with a primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

It stands at a height of 181 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50,206 acre-feet, serving the surrounding area with a surface area of 1,475 acres. The dam is situated on Cottonwood Creek, managed by the local government in Barrett Junction, and is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement for its operation.

Despite its historical significance and essential role in water supply, Morena dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in February 2022 revealed the need for improvements to meet safety standards. Emergency action plans are in place, but their effectiveness and adherence to guidelines remain uncertain. With a risk management framework yet to be fully developed, there is a need for proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the dam's long-term resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morena dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and risk management. Its location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and modernization efforts to safeguard water supply and protect communities downstream. As climate change brings increased variability in precipitation patterns and heightened hydrological risks, the resilience of structures like Morena dam will be crucial for ensuring water security and disaster preparedness in the region.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

181

River Or Stream

Cottonwood Cr

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1475

Hydraulic Height

167

Drainage Area

114

Nid Storage

50206

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

181
       
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.