Rio Bravo Diversion

Kern River· Kern, California· Built 1989· Concrete· 28 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Rio Bravo Diversion is classified as low hazard in California. It was completed in 1989 and is 37 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.

Physical Details

Dam Height 28 ft (taller than 27.2% in CA)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage63 acre-ft
Normal Storage47 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Year Completed1989 (37 years old)
NID IDCA01595

Safety Information

Low Hazard

No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: September 27, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Olcese Water District

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rio Bravo Diversion?

Rio Bravo Diversion is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Rio Bravo Diversion?

Rio Bravo Diversion is owned by Olcese Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rio Bravo Diversion built?

Rio Bravo Diversion was completed in 1989, making it 37 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 Rio Bravo Diversion?

Rio Bravo Diversion serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Rio Bravo Diversion?

Rio Bravo Diversion has a dam height of 28 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 Rio Bravo Diversion last inspected?

Rio Bravo Diversion was last inspected on September 27, 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.