Sutherland Dam, located in Ramona, California, along the Santa Ysabel Creek, is a critical infrastructure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction and water supply purposes. Completed in 1954, this Multi-Arch type dam stands at a height of 162 feet with a storage capacity of 29,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 550 acres. With a drainage area of 54 square miles, it plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Sutherland Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. Despite being deemed as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was reported as satisfactory. The last inspection in December 2020 indicated that the dam was meeting safety standards, showcasing its importance in mitigating flood risks in the area.

The presence of Sutherland Dam not only highlights the significance of water resource management in California but also underscores the crucial role of infrastructure in climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, dams like Sutherland play a vital role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from flooding and ensuring a sustainable water supply for the region.