Murray Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murray is a captivating multi-arch dam located in San Diego, California, along the Chaparral River.


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Summary

Completed in 1918, it stands at a towering height of 110 feet and has a storage capacity of 4818 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Murray is to serve as a water supply source for irrigation and domestic use in the region. It is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

With a drainage area of 3.6 square miles and a surface area of 200 acres, Murray plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. The dam has a high hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of September 2017. Regular inspections are conducted to monitor its structural integrity, with the most recent inspection taking place in May 2020. The dam is a vital infrastructure for water management in San Diego, contributing to the region's water supply and irrigation needs.

Murray's rich history and strategic location make it a significant landmark in California's water resource management. As a key component of the local government's water supply infrastructure, the dam serves as a testament to the region's commitment to sustainable water management practices. Its presence along the Chaparral River not only ensures reliable water supply but also highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating dams for climate resilience and water security in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

870

Dam Height

110

River Or Stream

Chaparral

Primary Dam Type

Multi-Arch

Surface Area

200

Hydraulic Height

104

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

4818

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

110
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.