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1. When will Loveland and/or Sweetwater Reservoir spill?

It depends on the intensity of the storms and the amount of runoff generated.

2. Will Sweetwater Authority release any water prior to a spill?

Sweetwater Authority will not release water at Sweetwater Reservoir. Spills at Sweetwater Reservoir will occur naturally, when the amount of water exceeds reservoir capacity. At Loveland Reservoir, only occasional, closely monitored releases are conducted to transfer stored water from Loveland to Sweetwater Reservoir.

3. How large is the Sweetwater watershed?

The Sweetwater watershed encompasses 230-square miles, and stretches from the Cleveland National Forest to the San Diego Bay. 2/3s of the watershed is above Loveland Reservoir.

4. Are the dams safe?

Both dams are structurally sound, and are frequently inspected by dam safety experts.

5. Who or what is impacted by the reservoirs' spilling?

Mostly golf courses and parks. Portions of Rancho San Diego, Chula Vista, Spring Valley and Bonita that are prone to flooding may be impacted.

6. When was the last time the reservoirs spilled?

Sweetwater Reservoir last spilled in 1998. Loveland Reservoir last spilled in 2011.

7. What is the distance between Loveland Reservoir and Sweetwater Reservoir?

The distance between Loveland Reservoir and Sweetwater Reservoir is 17 miles.