Lake Wohlford Dam Replacement Project

The Lake Wohlford Dam Replacement Project is an initiative by the City of Escondido to construct a replacement dam immediately downstream of the existing structure and partially deconstruct the old dam through the removal of hydraulic fill material. A key component of the project is the construction of a cast-in-place, reinforced concrete outlet tower anchored to the dam face, extending to an elevation of 1,490 feet above mean sea level. This tower will connect to an emergency release valve and associated appurtenances located on the south side of a new stilling basin and spillway. The project is authorized under Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS-SDO-25082-R5, issued by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 1602. A Notice of Determination dated July 25, 2025, confirms that the project will not have a significant environmental effect within the jurisdiction of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, provided that the adopted mitigation measures and monitoring plans are implemented. The work is located at Escondido Creek in San Diego County, California, and is managed by the City of Escondido as the lead agency.