Ramona Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ramona, also known as Lake Ramona, is a vital water supply structure located in Poway, California.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dam stands at a height of 228 feet and was completed in 1988. With a maximum storage capacity of 12,200 acre-feet, it serves the primary purpose of providing water for irrigation and water supply in the region.

The dam on the Green Val Road Creek is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety and compliance. Its high hazard potential is mitigated by satisfactory condition assessments, with the last inspection conducted in December 2019. Despite its critical role in water resource management, the dam has not been modified in recent years, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in San Diego County, Ramona plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply reliability. With the potential for high hazard in case of failure, the dam's condition assessments and emergency action plans are imperative for effective management and response to any unforeseen events. Its location, design, and operational status make it a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices in California.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

228

River Or Stream

Green Val Road Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

155

Hydraulic Height

215

Nid Storage

12200

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

228
       
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.
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