El Capitan is a vital water supply infrastructure located in Lakeside, California, along the San Diego River. This earth dam, standing at 237 feet tall, was completed in 1934 and has a storage capacity of 112,800 acre-feet, serving as a critical resource for the region. Despite its significant contribution to water supply, El Capitan is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential, making it imperative for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and Safety of Dams, El Capitan has a history of state oversight and inspection to uphold safety standards. The dam's primary purpose of water supply underscores its importance for the surrounding communities, with a drainage area of 190 square miles and a surface area of 1562 acres. The dam's strategic location and role in the water resource infrastructure make it a key component in the region's water management strategies, highlighting the critical need for its continued operation and maintenance.

With a history of state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, El Capitan remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental sustainability. As efforts to address the dam's poor condition and high hazard potential continue, the future of El Capitan serves as a case study in the ongoing challenges of managing essential water resources amidst evolving climate conditions and regulatory frameworks.