San Diego to Release Water from Full Lake Hodges Dam

City says recent rains have raised reservoir levels beyond safety threshold.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The city of San Diego announced it will release water from the 108-year-old Lake Hodges dam into the San Dieguito River to meet safety requirements. Recent heavy rain has raised the reservoir levels beyond the 280-foot elevation threshold set by the Division of Safety of Dams, requiring the controlled release to protect downstream communities.

Why it matters

The Lake Hodges Dam is an aging piece of infrastructure that has been deemed in unsatisfactory condition by state regulators, raising concerns about its long-term stability and the potential for catastrophic failure. The water release is a necessary safety measure, but it also highlights the need for the city to address the dam's long-term future, including potentially replacing it entirely.

The details

The city said the water release will be directed into the San Dieguito River channel, and they are coordinating with local water districts to maximize the beneficial use of the water. The Lake Hodges Dam was built in 1918 and purchased by the city in 1925. A previous plan to replace the dam entirely has faced significant cost increases, from $275 million to up to $697 million, leading the city to re-evaluate its options.

  • The Lake Hodges Dam was built in 1918.
  • The city of San Diego purchased the dam in 1925.
  • A report released in September 2025 listed the Hodges Reservoir's condition as unsatisfactory.

The players

City of San Diego

The local government entity that owns and operates the Lake Hodges Dam.

Division of Safety of Dams

The state agency responsible for setting safety thresholds and regulations for dams in California.

Santa Fe Irrigation District

A local water district that is coordinating with the city on the water release.

San Dieguito Water District

A local water district that is coordinating with the city on the water release.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The city says it plans to re-evaluate options for the long-term future of the Lake Hodges Dam, including potentially replacing it entirely.

The takeaway

This water release highlights the ongoing challenges facing aging water infrastructure in California, and the need for proactive investment and planning to ensure the safety and reliability of these critical assets.