Matrullas Dam
Key Takeaway
Matrullas Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 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 | 120 ft (taller than 61.1% in PR) |
| Dam Length | 710 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 77 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | PR00015 |
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
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Matrullas Dam?
Matrullas 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 Matrullas Dam?
Matrullas 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 Matrullas Dam built?
Matrullas Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Matrullas Dam?
Matrullas Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Matrullas Dam?
Matrullas Dam has a dam height of 120 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 Matrullas Dam last inspected?
Matrullas Dam was last inspected on February 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.