Portugues Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Portugues Dam, located in Ponce, Puerto Rico, is a concrete structure designed by the Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District to primarily reduce flood risks along the Portugues River.


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Summary

Completed in 2015, this impressive dam stands at 220 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 216 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 46,000 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 140 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 46,000 cubic feet per second in case of emergencies.

Despite its high hazard potential, Portugues Dam is in a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in June 2021. The dam is regulated by PREPA and undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential threats. Additionally, the dam also serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 71 acres for outdoor activities.

Overall, Portugues Dam is a crucial infrastructure in Puerto Rico's water resource management, providing flood protection and recreational opportunities to the local community. Its strategic location and impressive specifications make it a key asset in safeguarding the surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters while also offering a space for leisure and enjoyment. The dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

2015

Dam Length

1230

Dam Height

220

River Or Stream

PORTUGUES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

71

Hydraulic Height

216

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

46000

Structural Height

220

Outlet Gates

Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

220
       
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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.