Black Mountain Water Tank Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque city of Rancho Penasquitos, California, the Black Mountain Water Tank stands as a vital structure for water supply in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 2002, this offstream dam boasts a height of 55 feet and a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4 acres, it serves as a critical resource for the local community, ensuring a steady and reliable water source in times of need.

Managed by the local government, the Black Mountain Water Tank is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources, ensuring its compliance with safety standards and guidelines. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and supply for San Diego County. Its location at a distance of 0.25 miles from the city center makes it easily accessible while providing essential water storage and distribution services to the surrounding area.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and availability, structures like the Black Mountain Water Tank become increasingly important for ensuring water security in the face of potential challenges. With regular inspections and maintenance, this dam remains a reliable asset for the community, highlighting the significance of sustainable water management practices in safeguarding our water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

51

Nid Storage

77

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

55
       
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.