1978 aerial view of Lake Sutherland Dam and Reservoir. Construction of the dam began in 1927, but it was not completed until 1954. Lack of funds and a disagreement over water rights halted construction in 1928 when it was about one-fourth complete. It resumed 1952. Lake Sutherland is located about 10 miles northeast of downtown Ramona and belongs to the City of San Diego. It is named after John P. Sutherland, realtor and farmer.