Kerckhoff Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kerckhoff Reservoir is a man-made lake located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.


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Summary

It was constructed in the early 1900s as part of the San Joaquin River Hydroelectric Project. The reservoir is fed by the San Joaquin River and its tributaries, as well as by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. This makes it an important source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in the Central Valley region of California. The reservoir also provides recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The area surrounding the reservoir is used for agricultural purposes, including growing crops such as almonds, grapes, and citrus fruit. The water levels in the reservoir are closely monitored and managed to ensure a reliable water supply for both agricultural and urban users.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change -5.14%
Percent of Normal 87%
Minimum 17.0 acre-ft
2022-01-17
Maximum 2,446.0 acre-ft
2020-09-27
Average 2,055 acre-ft
Nid_Height 114
Hydraulic_Height 86
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Drainage_Area 1461
Year_Completed 1920
Dam_Height 114
Structural_Height 106
Foundations Unlisted/Unknown
Surface_Area 160
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 14
Nid_Storage 4252
River_Or_Stream San Joaquin River
Dam_Length 507
Hazard_Potential Low
       
Seasonal Comparison
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Top Conserv Storage Levels
Inflow Levels

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.