Pulgas Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pulgas Lake Dam, located in San Diego, California, is a vital water resource managed by the US Marine Corps for fire protection, stocking, and recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and has a hydraulic height of 44 feet, with a capacity to store 122 acre-feet of water. The dam also serves as a small fish pond and covers a surface area of 6.5 acres, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in June 2017. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is regularly monitored and maintained by the US Navy, ensuring the safety and functionality of this important water infrastructure in the region.

In conclusion, Pulgas Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the area, providing essential services for both the military and local community. With its strategic location and multiple purposes, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

PIEDRA DE LUBRE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

3.4

Nid Storage

122

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.