Buena Vista Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Buena Vista, a private dam located in Kern County, California, was completed in 1890 and serves as a crucial water supply source for irrigation and domestic use in the area.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20 feet with a storage capacity of 205,000 acre-feet, this offstream earth dam plays a significant role in managing water resources for the region. The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with inspections conducted regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.
Owned and regulated by the state of California, the Buena Vista dam is subject to inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams agency. With its location in the Sacramento District and a drainage area of 373 square miles, the dam plays a vital role in water management within the region. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's risk is managed effectively, and emergency response plans are in place to address any potential threats.
Buena Vista's historical significance and role in water supply make it a key structure in ensuring sustainable water management practices in California. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Buena Vista play a critical role in safeguarding water supplies for both agricultural and residential use, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring these vital infrastructure assets to ensure water security for the future.
Year Completed |
1890 |
Dam Length |
33000 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Offstream |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24000 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
373 |
Nid Storage |
205000 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Buena Vista