Summary
Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock containment, and as a small fish pond. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management for the San Antonio River.
Despite its low hazard potential, Milpitas poses a high risk due to its outdated risk assessment and lack of condition assessment data. The dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, raising concerns about its ability to withstand extreme weather events and prevent downstream flooding. While the dam is primarily managed by the US Army, it is not inspected frequently, with the last inspection dated back to April 2019. As climate change continues to impact water resources, there is a growing need for improved risk management measures and updated emergency action plans for structures like Milpitas.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Milpitas presents an intriguing case study of a federally owned dam with multiple purposes and a high risk assessment rating. As discussions around water management and climate resilience gain momentum, the importance of ensuring the safety and efficiency of structures like Milpitas becomes increasingly clear. With its location in Monterey County, California, and its role in the San Antonio River watershed, Milpitas serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with balancing water resource needs with climate adaptation efforts.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
San Antonio River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Old Wagon Cave Campground
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Nacimiento
|
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Nacimiento Campground
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Carrizo Springs Rustic Campsite
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ABC Camp Rustic Campsite
|
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Chalk Peak Camp
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Milpitas