Garzas Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Garzas Dam, also known as Lago Garzas, is a vital water resource structure located in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and water supply. Completed in 1943, the dam stands at a height of 201 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5,500 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Situated on the Vacas River, Garzas Dam is regulated by PREPA and falls under the jurisdiction of Puerto Rico. With a high hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019, the dam poses a moderate risk that requires ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. Despite its challenges, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key infrastructure for both water supply and hydroelectric power, Garzas Dam represents a critical component of Puerto Rico's water resource management system. Efforts to address the dam's risk factors and ensure its continued operation are essential for safeguarding water access and energy generation in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garzas Dam serves as a poignant example of the complex challenges and opportunities involved in managing water infrastructure in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Height

201

River Or Stream

VACAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

108

Hydraulic Height

191

Drainage Area

6.25

Nid Storage

5500

Structural Height

201

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

201
       
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.
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