Rio Bravo Canal Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

The Rio Bravo Canal in Kern, California, is a public utility infrastructure managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1988, this canal serves as a vital water resource in the region, with a storage capacity of 1 acre-foot and a significant hazard potential. Despite its importance, the condition assessment for the canal is currently not available, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and inspection to ensure its safety and efficiency.

Located in the Sacramento District under federal jurisdiction, the Rio Bravo Canal plays a crucial role in water management and energy production in California. With its primary purpose being hydroelectric, the canal's operation and maintenance are overseen by federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The canal's design and construction are also regulated by federal authorities, ensuring compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations.

As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, the Rio Bravo Canal requires ongoing monitoring and assessment to mitigate potential risks and ensure its long-term viability. With a designated emergency action plan and regular inspections, the canal can continue to support water supply and energy generation in Kern County while minimizing the impact of hazards on surrounding communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of this infrastructure in promoting sustainable development and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Height

1

Nid Storage

1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

1
       
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.