Kern Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kern Diversion, also known as Democrat, is a private hydroelectric dam located in Kern County, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1906, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 203.54 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 247 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, Kern Diversion plays a crucial role in water resource management and hydroelectric power generation in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Kern Diversion is regulated, inspected, and enforced by various state agencies to ensure its safe operation. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway, with a width of 204 feet, is uncontrolled, and the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 6,500 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area, with a surface area of 27 acres, is primarily used for water diversion from the Kern River for hydroelectric purposes.

Located near Bakersfield, Kern Diversion is a vital component in the water infrastructure of the region. Its historical significance, combined with its modern-day operational capabilities, makes it an essential structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable management of water resources and the generation of clean energy through hydroelectric power.

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

203.54

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Kern River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

27

Nid Storage

247

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.