Prieto Dam
Key Takeaway
Prieto Dam is classified as high hazard in Puerto Rico. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 | 98 ft (taller than 47.2% in PR) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 880 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 32,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | PR00002 |
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 Prieto Dam?
Prieto 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 Prieto Dam?
Prieto 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 Prieto Dam built?
Prieto Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Prieto Dam?
Prieto 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 Prieto Dam?
Prieto Dam has a dam height of 98 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 Prieto Dam last inspected?
Prieto Dam was last inspected on December 11, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.