Calavera Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Calavera, also known as Calavera Lake, is a significant water resource located in Carlsbad, California.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by a public utility, this earth dam was completed in 1940 and has a height of 67 feet, with a primary purpose of supplying water for irrigation and domestic use. Situated on Calavera Creek, this dam has a storage capacity of 520 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 35 acres, serving as a vital water source for the surrounding area.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, Calavera Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in 2017, indicating a diligent maintenance regime. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2020, highlighting the proactive approach taken to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the community in case of a dam failure event.

With its crucial role in providing water supply for irrigation and domestic use, Calavera Dam stands as a key infrastructure in San Diego County. Its location on Calavera Creek and the meticulous regulatory oversight by state agencies underscore its significance in ensuring water security for the region. The dam's satisfactory condition and regular maintenance efforts reflect a commitment to safeguarding this essential water resource for the benefit of local residents and the environment.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

67

River Or Stream

Calavera Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

60.5

Drainage Area

3.6

Nid Storage

520

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

67
       
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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.