Caonillas Dam, located in Jayuya, Puerto Rico, is a captivating structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Completed in 1948, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 235 feet, with a hydraulic height of 206.75 feet. Its storage capacity reaches up to 54,970 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for water management in the region.

Managed by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA), Caonillas Dam holds a high hazard potential but is currently rated as satisfactory in condition assessment. With a drainage area of 50.4 square miles and a maximum discharge of 107,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow along the Caonillas River. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam continues to operate effectively under regular state inspections and enforcement measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caonillas Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of infrastructure, hydrology, and environmental management. Its multi-arch design, rock foundations, and uncontrolled spillway contribute to its structural integrity. As a key component of Puerto Rico's water infrastructure, the dam symbolizes the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.