Berrenda Mesa

Unnamed· Kern, California· Built 1967· Earth· 22 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Irrigation Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Berrenda Mesa is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 22 ft (taller than 18.8% in CA)
Dam Length2,550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage180 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1967 (59 years old)
NID IDCA00884

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: June 10, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Division of Safety of Dams

Ownership

Berrenda Mesa Water District

Public Utility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Berrenda Mesa?

Berrenda Mesa is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Berrenda Mesa?

Berrenda Mesa is owned by Berrenda Mesa Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Berrenda Mesa built?

Berrenda Mesa was completed in 1967, making it 59 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Berrenda Mesa?

Berrenda Mesa serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Berrenda Mesa?

Berrenda Mesa has a dam height of 22 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Berrenda Mesa last inspected?

Berrenda Mesa was last inspected on June 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.