Garzas Dam
Key Takeaway
Garzas Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1943 and is 83 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 201 ft (taller than 86.1% in PR) |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 108 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 25,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1943 (83 years old) |
| NID ID | PR00006 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
PUERTO RICO ELECTRIC POWER AUTHORITY
Public Utility
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High Hazard 169 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Garzas Dam?
Garzas Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Garzas Dam?
Garzas Dam is owned by PUERTO RICO ELECTRIC POWER AUTHORITY (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Garzas Dam built?
Garzas Dam was completed in 1943, making it 83 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Garzas Dam?
Garzas Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Garzas Dam?
Garzas Dam has a dam height of 201 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Garzas Dam last inspected?
Garzas Dam was last inspected on May 2, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.