Case Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Case Springs Dam, also known as Case Spring Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in San Diego, California, under the jurisdiction of the US Marine Corps.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at 51 feet tall with a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. Its primary purposes include fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, and it also serves as a recreational area.

The dam, with a length of 590 feet and a surface area of 3.7 acres, is designed to regulate the flow of the TR-San Onofre Creek. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Case Springs Dam has a moderate risk rating. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet and is maintained by the US Navy, who also funded, designed, and constructed the dam.

Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam undergoes inspections every three years, with the last assessment conducted in June 2017. Although no associated structures or locks are present, Case Springs Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management, providing essential services for fire protection and recreational activities in the area. Its historical significance and continued maintenance ensure the safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure for the community and surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

TR-SAN ONOFRE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Hydraulic Height

44

Nid Storage

86

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.