Dunsmuir Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dunsmuir Reservoir, located in Oakland, California, serves as a vital water supply resource for the region, with a storage capacity of 197 acre-feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this offstream reservoir stands at a height of 43 feet and has a hydraulic height of 41 feet. Maintained by a public utility, Dunsmuir Reservoir is regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) and the Safety of Dams agency, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a hazard potential rated as high, Dunsmuir Reservoir has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in March 2021. The reservoir's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been updated as of January 2018, aiming to ensure the preparedness and safety of the surrounding community in case of emergencies. While specifics on risk assessment and management measures are not provided in the data, the reservoir's strategic location and design make it a crucial asset for water supply and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key component of the water supply infrastructure in Alameda County, Dunsmuir Reservoir plays a critical role in meeting the area's water needs. With its solid construction, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness measures, the reservoir stands as a reliable resource for the community. Its strategic location and high capacity underscore its importance in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

2275

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

41

Nid Storage

197

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

43
       
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.