Soda Lake, located in Santa Cruz, California, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1978 primarily for water supply purposes, including irrigation. With a dam height of 44 feet and a hydraulic height of 41 feet, the reservoir has a storage capacity of 2631 acre-feet and a surface area of 72 acres. It is situated near Tr Pajaro River, providing vital water resources to the surrounding area.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Soda Lake is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with dam standards. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in March 2020. Despite being a private structure, it plays a crucial role in water supply and irrigation for the region, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring.

With its proximity to Aromas and the oversight of state regulatory agencies like the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, Soda Lake serves as a key water resource for the community. The dam's satisfactory condition, regular inspections, and emergency action plan preparedness demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources and availability, maintaining and managing structures like Soda Lake will be crucial in safeguarding water supplies for the future.