#DISCOVERCARMELRIVER - LOS PADRES DAM
The Los Padres Dam has long shaped the Carmel River, but its future is now a topic of debate. While the removal of the San Clemente Dam marked a significant milestone, the next steps for Los Padres are still under consideration. As dams age, they fill with silt and become less effective, making rehabilitation costly compared to removal. However, removing the dam would eliminate our ability to release water during dry months and support firefighting efforts.
There are compelling arguments on both sides of this important discussion. The latest study on the Los Padres Dam is now available on the MPWMD website, and public comments are welcomed. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our river.