Henshaw Reservoir Report

Nearby: Sutherland

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Henshaw, also known as Lake Henshaw, is a public utility water reservoir located in Pauma Valley, California.


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Summary

Managed by state regulatory agencies such as the Department of Water Resources (DWR) and Safety of Dams, Henshaw plays a vital role in supplying water for irrigation and other purposes in the region. The earth dam, completed in 1923, stands at a height of 123 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50,000 acre-feet.

Situated on the San Luis Rey River, Henshaw covers a surface area of 2000 acres and has a drainage area of 207 square miles. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its age, Henshaw continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in the area, serving as a reliable source of water supply for the surrounding communities.

The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is periodically reviewed and updated to meet guidelines, ensuring that proper risk management measures are in place. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Henshaw remains a key asset in the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

123

River Or Stream

San Luis Rey Rv

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2000

Hydraulic Height

73

Drainage Area

207

Nid Storage

50000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

123
       
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.