El Centro Water Purification Plant Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Heber, California, the El Centro Water Purification Plant stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water supply and sustainability.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this Earth dam structure serves the crucial purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet. The dam measures a height of 13 feet and a length of 3430 feet, making it a significant player in the water management infrastructure of Imperial County.

Despite its age, the El Centro Water Purification Plant has been well-maintained, with regular inspections and a fair condition assessment as of September 2017. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and falls under the safety jurisdiction of the Safety of Dams program. With a high hazard potential, the plant is prepared for emergencies, although details on the Emergency Action Plan are not specified in the data.

With a focus on offstream water sources, the El Centro Water Purification Plant symbolizes California's proactive approach to water resource management. Its strategic location and design reflect a long-standing commitment to ensuring water security for the residents of Imperial County. As climate change continues to impact water availability, structures like the El Centro Water Purification Plant play a crucial role in safeguarding the region's water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

3430

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

10.2

Nid Storage

185

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.