University Mound North Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

University Mound North Basin, located in San Francisco, California, was completed in 1885 and serves as a critical water supply structure in the region.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet. The dam has a surface area of 10 acres and a length of 2422 feet, making it a significant infrastructure for water management in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams, University Mound North Basin is considered to have a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last assessment in September 2017, ensuring the safety and reliability of the structure. With its primary purpose of water supply and a history dating back over a century, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources in the region.

Overall, University Mound North Basin stands as a historic and essential water management infrastructure in San Francisco, California. With its solid construction, regulated oversight, and significant water storage capacity, this dam continues to support the region's water supply needs while also playing a vital role in climate and water resource management efforts. Climate and water enthusiasts will find this structure fascinating for its historical significance and ongoing contribution to sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1885

Dam Length

2422

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Nid Storage

182

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.