Buena Vista Winery Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buena Vista Winery, located in Cuttings Wharf, California, is home to a significant earth dam on Tr Hudeman Slough.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, the dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36.2 feet, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet for irrigation and water supply purposes. With a drainage area of 0.28 square miles and a surface area of 10 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned privately, Buena Vista Winery is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and the Safety of Dams agency. Its dam, classified as having a significant hazard potential, underwent a satisfactory condition assessment in September 2017. The dam's last inspection in November 2020 showed a regular inspection frequency of one year, highlighting the commitment to maintaining its structural integrity and ensuring the safety of downstream communities. While no emergency action plan details were provided, the winery's dedication to compliance and enforcement of state regulations underscores its responsibility in managing water resources effectively.

Buena Vista Winery's dam on Tr Hudeman Slough stands as a testament to the intersection of agriculture, water supply, and climate resilience in Sonoma County. With the support of state agencies and a private owner, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of providing water for irrigation and supply. As enthusiasts in water resource and climate issues, the winery's infrastructure presents a captivating example of sustainable water management practices within the context of California's diverse and dynamic environment.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

556

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Tr Hudeman Slough

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

36.2

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.