Mt. Woodson Reservoir Report

Nearby: Ramona Poway

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mt.


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Summary

Woodson, located in Ramona, California, is a crucial offstream water supply dam managed by a public utility. Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at 38 feet high with a hydraulic height of 36.9 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. With the primary purpose of supplying water for irrigation and domestic use, Mt. Woodson plays a vital role in water resource management in San Diego County.

Despite its relatively small size, Mt. Woodson poses a high hazard potential due to its location and the consequences of a potential failure. However, the dam's condition is assessed as fair and it undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Water Resources and is regulated by the Safety of Dams program, highlighting the commitment to upholding safety standards and protecting downstream communities from potential risks.

In the realm of climate change and water resource management, Mt. Woodson serves as a significant infrastructure for the region, contributing to water supply sustainability and resilience. Its presence underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to adapt to changing environmental conditions and ensure the continued availability of water resources for agricultural, urban, and environmental needs in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1130

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

36.9

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.