Matrullas Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Guineo Dam Toa Vaca Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Matrullas Dam, located in Ciales, Puerto Rico, is a vital piece of infrastructure owned by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority.
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Summary
Constructed in 1934, this earth dam stands at a height of 120 feet and spans 710 feet in length, harnessing the power of the Matrullas River for hydroelectric and irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 3,590 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 15,000 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding region.
Despite its significant contributions, Matrullas Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as having an unsatisfactory condition. The dam is regulated by PREPA and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. With a drainage area of 4.42 square miles and a surface area of 77 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway and stone core structure highlight the engineering complexities involved in maintaining this essential infrastructure.
As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, the importance of structures like Matrullas Dam cannot be overstated. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, the dam's risk management measures are continuously evaluated to mitigate potential hazards. As a key player in both water supply and renewable energy generation, Matrullas Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1934 |
Dam Length |
710 |
Dam Height |
120 |
River Or Stream |
MATRULLAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
77 |
Hydraulic Height |
103.35 |
Drainage Area |
4.42 |
Nid Storage |
3590 |
Structural Height |
120 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
120 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Matrullas Dam