Bernardo Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Rancho Bernardo, California, Bernardo Reservoir is a vital offstream water supply source with a capacity of 30 acre-feet.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet and spans 830 feet in length. The reservoir's primary purpose is to provide water supply to the local community, making it a crucial asset for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety compliance, Bernardo Reservoir has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections ensure the structural integrity of the dam, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017. With its location in San Diego County and proximity to the Los Angeles District, the reservoir plays a crucial role in ensuring water security for the surrounding area.

Despite its modest surface area of 2 acres, Bernardo Reservoir serves as a key water source for Rancho Bernardo and underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change. By providing a reliable water supply and adhering to strict regulatory standards, this reservoir exemplifies the vital role of infrastructure in supporting water resource resilience in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

830

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

51

Nid Storage

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

54
       
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.