Comerio I Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Comerio I Dam, located in Comerío, Puerto Rico, is a hydroelectric dam on the La Plata River with a primary purpose of generating electricity.


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Summary

Built in 1907, this gravity dam stands at 47 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 136 square miles and a maximum discharge of 19,970 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Despite its historical significance and important role in providing renewable energy, Comerio I Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment. The dam has been rated as having a poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in September 2019 revealed the need for significant maintenance and repairs to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure. As a result, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the importance of proactive risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.

Given its age and condition, Comerio I Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing maintenance and investment needed in our water infrastructure to ensure the sustainability and resilience of our water resources in the face of climate change. As a key player in the water resource and climate conversation, enthusiasts should closely monitor the developments and efforts to address the challenges facing this important hydroelectric facility.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

LA PLATA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

136

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

47

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

47
       
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.