Vail Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vail Dam, located in Riverside, California, is a crucial part of the water supply infrastructure in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this arch-type dam stands at a height of 152 feet and has a storage capacity of 51,000 acre-feet, serving primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes. The dam overlooks the scenic Temecula Creek and has a drainage area of 318.4 square miles, providing essential water resources to the surrounding communities.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), Vail Dam is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of September 2017. With a recent inspection conducted in February 2021, efforts are ongoing to monitor and maintain the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness measures.

Vail Dam's significance goes beyond its functional role as a water storage facility; it also serves as a testament to the engineering expertise and dedication to water resource management. The dam's presence highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change challenges, ensuring the continued availability of water for agricultural, municipal, and environmental needs in the region.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

788

Dam Height

152

River Or Stream

Temecula Creek

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

1078

Hydraulic Height

139.4

Drainage Area

318.4

Nid Storage

51000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

152
       
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.