Summary
Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 7,500 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Buena Vista is flood risk reduction, but it also serves irrigation, recreation, and water supply needs in the region.
Situated along the Kern River, Buena Vista covers a surface area of 980 acres and has a drainage area of 1.8 square miles. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Buena Vista is satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in May 2020.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buena Vista offers a fascinating insight into the management of water resources in California. With its multi-purpose design and critical role in flood risk reduction, irrigation, and water supply, this reservoir is a key asset in the region's water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water availability and flood risks, the maintenance and regulation of dams like Buena Vista are essential for ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the area.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
24000 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
Kern River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
980 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1.8 |
Nid Storage |
7500 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
14 |
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