Santa Maria is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Ramona, California, managed by a public utility. This earth dam, completed in 1995, serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses. With a height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet, Santa Maria plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

The dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment as of September 2017 was deemed satisfactory. The dam's emergency action plan is in place, with the last revision dated December 2018. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 0.4 square miles, emphasizing the importance of Santa Maria in managing water resources efficiently.

Located in San Diego County, Santa Maria is situated offstream and part of the Los Angeles District. With its significant storage capacity and critical role in water supply, this dam is a key component in the region's water infrastructure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the strategic importance and operational effectiveness of Santa Maria in sustaining water availability for various purposes in the area.