Milpitas, also known as Dam #2, is a federally owned structure located in Jolon, California, within the San Francisco District of the US Army. 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Despite its low hazard potential, Milpitas poses a high risk due to its outdated risk assessment and lack of condition assessment data.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.