Rutherford #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rutherford #2 is a federal-owned Earth dam located in San Diego, California, built in 1952 by STARR RUTHERFORD CATTLE CO.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet with a length of 100 feet, providing a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet for water resource management. The dam's primary purpose is classified as 'Other,' with a spillway type of 'Uncontrolled' and a hazard potential rated as 'Low.'

Despite being categorized as having a moderate risk level (3), Rutherford #2 has not undergone a condition assessment and is currently rated as 'Not Rated.' The dam's last inspection was conducted in August 2020, with an inspection frequency of 10 years. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, updated emergency contacts, or inundation maps, it is still considered to meet safety guidelines. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water resource management, Rutherford #2 serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the Sacramento District, under the ownership of the Forest Service.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

100

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

210

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.