Toa Vaca Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Guayabal Dam Poncenaâ Dam
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Toa Vaca Dam, also known as Lago Toa Vaca, is a concrete dam located in Juana Diaz, Puerto Rico, along the Toa Vaca River.
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Summary
Completed in 1972 for the primary purpose of irrigation, this impressive structure stands at a height of 215 feet and has a hydraulic height of 206 feet. With a storage capacity of 60,143 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 77,100 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply and management in the region.
The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 160 feet and is equipped with Tainter and Vertical Lift outlet gates. Despite its high hazard potential, Toa Vaca Dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of April 2019. The risk assessment for the dam is categorized as very high, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is under the jurisdiction of PREPA (Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority) and is regulated and inspected by the state, highlighting the collaborative efforts in managing this vital water resource.
With its critical role in irrigation and water supply, Toa Vaca Dam serves as a key infrastructure for the surrounding Villalba and Juana Diaz communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and management of this dam are essential to mitigate risks and ensure the sustainable utilization of water in the region. The impressive engineering of Toa Vaca Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water resources for the benefit of society.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Height |
215 |
River Or Stream |
TOA VACA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
310 |
Hydraulic Height |
206 |
Drainage Area |
21.95 |
Nid Storage |
60143 |
Structural Height |
215 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial), Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
215 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Toa Vaca Dam