Fairbanks Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fairbanks, also known as Fairbanks Lake, is a private dam located in Del Mar, California, along the Tr San Dieguito River.


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Summary

Completed in 1927, this gravity dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for irrigation and water supply, serving the local community with a surface area of 16 acres and draining an area of 1.5 square miles.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and subject to state regulatory oversight, Fairbanks is classified as a high hazard potential dam with a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2017. Inspected annually, the dam has been found to meet safety standards and is equipped with emergency action plans. With Congressman Mike Levin representing the area, Fairbanks plays a crucial role in water management in San Diego County, providing vital resources for agriculture and local residents.

As an integral part of the water supply infrastructure in the region, Fairbanks highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating dams for effective water management and climate resilience. With its historical significance and ongoing operational and safety measures, Fairbanks stands as a testament to the balance between water resource development and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

194

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Tr San Dieguito Rv

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.