Summary
Constructed in 1919, this earth dam stands at 16 feet high with a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet, supporting both water supply and recreational purposes. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, Corte Madera is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program.
Situated in the city of Los Terrenitos, Corte Madera plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region, covering a drainage area of 2.5 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has maintained its structural integrity and safety standards, ensuring reliable water storage for the surrounding community. The dam has a surface area of 69 acres and a hydraulic height of 7.5 feet, contributing to the efficient management of water flow and storage within the reservoir.
With Juan Vargas serving as the congressional representative for the area, Corte Madera represents a key piece of infrastructure in California's water management system. The dam's last inspection in May 2020 confirmed its satisfactory condition, further solidifying its importance in providing water supply and recreational opportunities for the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Corte Madera play a crucial role in ensuring sustainable and reliable access to water for communities in San Diego County.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Tr Pine Valley Cr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
69 |
Hydraulic Height |
7.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.5 |
Nid Storage |
325 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Corral Canyon Campground
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Corral Canyon
|
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Bobcat Meadow
|
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Bobcat Meadow Campground
|
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Boulder Oaks Campground
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Boulder Oaks
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Corte Madera
Morena Dam
Barrett
Crouch Ranch To Morena Reservoir