Chet Harritt Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chet Harritt, also known as Jennings Lake, is a public utility water supply dam located in Lakeside, California.


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Summary

Built in 1962, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 200 feet and has a storage capacity of 9790 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Chet Harritt is to provide water for irrigation, recreation, and general water supply in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Chet Harritt plays a crucial role in water resource management in San Diego County. The dam spans 1117 feet in length and impounds water from the Quail Can Creek, with a drainage area of 1.8 square miles. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, Chet Harritt is deemed to be in satisfactory condition based on its latest assessment in 2017.

With its scenic location and vital role in water supply, Chet Harritt is a significant asset in the region's infrastructure. As a key component in the local water management system, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of water supply, recreation, and environmental conservation in Southern California.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1117

Dam Height

200

River Or Stream

Quail Can Crk

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

176

Hydraulic Height

191.7

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

9790

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

200
       
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.