El Piojo Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

El Piojo, also known as Dam #9, is a federal-owned structure located in Monterey, California, near the city of Bradley.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond. The dam, situated on the El Piojo River, has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the US Army, El Piojo has a low hazard potential and is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for fire protection and supporting local wildlife. With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 786 cubic feet per second, El Piojo is equipped to handle potential flood events and maintain the water supply for its designated purposes.

Overall, El Piojo serves as an essential water resource in the region, offering both practical benefits and environmental support. As a key element in the landscape of Monterey County, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management and conservation efforts in the face of changing climate conditions. Its presence underscores the critical role that infrastructure plays in safeguarding our water supply and natural habitats.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

290

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

El Piojo River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.