Department of Water Resources

1416 Ninth Street
Sacramento, CA 95814

Mailing Address:
P. O. Box 942836
Sacramento, CA 94236

ALERT! Construction activity is underway along the southeastern span of Perris Dam now through the end of February 2010 as the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) conducts a test program to obtain additional geotechnical information about the dam and foundation in advance of future seismic retrofitting. The testing involves groundwater de-watering, excavation, and cement deep soil mixing operations at the toe of the dam. This testing will not affect the lake levels. Construction of access roads on the face of the dam has been completed as well as the geologic drilling along the crest, slope and toe of the dam.

The public is encouraged to use caution while walking along the dam in this area and asked to please respect any access restrictions imposed for safety purposes. For additional information, the media and public are asked to contact Elizabeth Scott, DWR Public Affairs at (916) 653-0979 or email to perrisdam@water.ca.gov.

Perris Dam Project Overview

The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has identified potential seismic safety risks in a section of the foundation of Perris Dam. There is no imminent threat to life or property. However, in the interest of ensuring the maximum public safety for those using and living downstream of the lake, the State has taken precautions such as lowering the lake's water level.

Following an independent expert analysis, DWR is moving ahead with its plans to repair Perris Dam. The independent consulting board released its findings to DWR, owner of the dam, the Division of Safety and Dams, which regulates the safety and integrity of California dams, and the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD), the principal user of water from Lake Perris.

DWR has thoroughly evaluated the best and most feasible repair options to address the seismic concerns at Perris Dam. The proposed repair plan includes upgrading the dam by replacing the foundation material and reinforcing it with a stability berm placed on top of the improved foundation. This will allow the lake to return to its previous maximum operating pool elevation after construction. Other aspects of the proposed plan include a new outlet tower and emergency outlet release facilities.

DWR released the Draft EIR (DEIR) on January 11, 2010. An electronic copy may be obtained though internet download at the link in the left hand column of this page, or by request through email. Publication of this Draft EIR marks the beginning of a 45-day public review period during which comments may be directed to:

The public is invited to provide comments and suggestions regarding the project during a meeting to be held February 3, 2010 at 6 p.m. at Harrison Hall, Lake Perris Fairgrounds, 18700 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA.

Completion of the dam remediation design is expected in late 2010. Construction is estimated to begin in 2011. Dam completion is expected by 2013. All projects concerning the Perris Dam are anticipated to be complete by 2014.

Lake Perris is located in northern Riverside County, and is the southernmost State Water Project facility and the southern terminus of the East Branch of the California Aqueduct. The Lake Perris State Recreation Area is one of the State’s most popular recreation destinations, with an average annual attendance of 1.1 million visitors.

If you have comments, questions, or would like to receive current updates regarding the Perris Dam Remediation Project, please contact DWR at perrisdam@water.ca.gov.

This website was last updated on 1-12-10.