Buena Vista
Key Takeaway
Buena Vista is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 15.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 33,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 205.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 24,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 373 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00717 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
J.G. Boswell Company and Tenneco West
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buena Vista?
Buena Vista 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 Buena Vista?
Buena Vista is owned by J.G. Boswell Company and Tenneco West (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buena Vista built?
Buena Vista was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Buena Vista?
Buena Vista 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 Buena Vista?
Buena Vista has a dam height of 20 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 Buena Vista last inspected?
Buena Vista was last inspected on May 18, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.