Copper Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Copper Basin, located in San Bernardino, California, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by a public utility.


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Summary

This arch dam, completed in 1938, stands at a height of 184 feet and has a storage capacity of 22,000 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, ensuring the availability of water for the surrounding areas, especially in times of need.

With a drainage area of 8.2 square miles, Copper Basin plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Copper Basin river. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in satisfactory condition, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, with a last revision in December 2018, indicating preparedness for any unforeseen events.

Situated in Parker Dam, Copper Basin is a key structure in the region, contributing to water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location and design make it an essential asset for water supply security in California, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

184

River Or Stream

Copper Basin

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

427

Hydraulic Height

170.5

Drainage Area

8.2

Nid Storage

22000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

184
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.