Agua Tibia Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Agua Tibia, located in Pala, California, is a privately owned dam that serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure in San Diego County.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at 35 feet tall and spans 1053 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. Primarily used for irrigation and water supply purposes, Agua Tibia plays a vital role in supporting the region's agricultural and residential water needs.

Managed by the state regulatory agency DWR, Safety of Dams, Agua Tibia is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam undergoes frequent evaluations to mitigate any potential risks and ensure its continued functionality. With its location offstream and a drainage area of 4 square miles, Agua Tibia is a key component in the water resource management of the area, contributing to the overall water security and climate resilience of the region.

As a critical piece of infrastructure in the Los Angeles District, Agua Tibia serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam stands as a symbol of the careful balance between water supply needs and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate conditions. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Agua Tibia in ensuring the sustainability and resilience of water systems in California.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

1053

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

31.6

Nid Storage

62

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.