Loveland Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Loveland Reservoir is a man-made reservoir located in California's Cuyamaca Mountains.


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Summary

It was constructed in 1946 and is owned by the City of San Diego. The reservoir has a capacity of 25,500 acre-feet and is fed by the Sweetwater River. It primarily serves as a storage facility for the city's water supply.

The hydrology of Loveland Reservoir is dependent on both surface flow and snowpack providers, with the Sweetwater River being the primary surface flow provider. The reservoir also receives water from the Cuyamaca Mountains snowpack during the winter months.

While Loveland Reservoir is primarily used for water storage, it also supports agricultural and recreational activities in the surrounding area. The water is used for irrigation of crops and provides a source of fishing and boating for visitors. The reservoir is popular for hiking and camping and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Reservoir Details

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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.