Lago Regulador Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lago Regulador, located in Isabela, Puerto Rico, is a crucial water resource managed by the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA).


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Summary

Completed in 1996, this earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a storage capacity of 399 acre-feet, serving as a primary source for water supply in the region. The reservoir covers a surface area of 161.5 acres and is regulated by state authorities, ensuring proper inspection, enforcement, and permitting to maintain its functionality.

With a controlled spillway and satisfactory condition assessment, Lago Regulador poses a high hazard potential but meets regulatory guidelines for risk management. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, and its risk assessment indicates a very high risk level. Despite these challenges, the reservoir plays a vital role in water supply infrastructure in the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and reliability of this critical resource for the community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of Lago Regulador's design, construction, and regulatory oversight provides valuable insight into the complex interplay between water infrastructure and environmental factors. By recognizing the challenges and risks associated with this dam, stakeholders can work towards implementing effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols to safeguard this essential water source for the future.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

MOCA IRRIGATION CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

161.5

Nid Storage

399

Structural Height

40.31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.