Berenda

BERENDA RESERVOIR

Berenda Reservoir is an equalization reservoir that provides water for local farmers. It is located approximately four miles east of Chowchilla on Avenue 26. The reservoir is a seasonal water feature situated on six acres offering opportunities for summer recreational fun. The site includes a Rotary Club BBQ shelter, Scout Island, a boat launch, beach swimming areas, and restrooms.

Summertime at Berenda Reservoir

Berenda Reservoir is only open during summer months. The opening and closing dates for the reservoir are determined by the availability of water and the cooperation of volunteers, therefore dates are always subject to change. Generally the season lasts from mid-June through mid-August. The waterway is controlled by the Chowchilla Water District and Army Corp. of Engineers.

Current Fees

Fees have been charged to use Berenda Reservoir in the past, but due to lack of staff and vandalism to drop boxes, the gates are currently not manned. Please contact us at (559) 665-8615, extension 110 if you would like to donate towards the operation and maintenance of the reservoir to help keep it open for this season and future seasons.

Rules and Regulations

Per agreements with Madera County and the Chowchilla Water District, the Chowchilla Police Department has enforcement jurisdiction for Berenda Reservoir. For information, call the Chowchilla Police Department at (559) 665-8600. Reservoir (park area, Scout Island, and waterway) regulating law is based upon the California Harbor and Navigation Code, Penal Code, City, and County of the California Code of Regulations. City Resolution #36-99 establishes certain rules, regulations and fees for the Berenda Reservoir (Municipal Code Chapters 6, 12, 12.24, 12.28). Some of the rules listed are as follows:

	Maximum speed for all watercrafts (boats, jet skis, etc.) is 35 miles per hour
	Personal watercraft is defined as a vessel less than 12 feet in length, propelled by machinery designed for person to stand, sit or kneel
	No boating between 9:00 p.m. (or dusk) and 8:00 a.m.
	No person will operate a watercraft in designated swimming area
	All state boating regulations are in effect
	Park opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at dusk
	No open fires or overnight camping is allowed without a specific permit
	All vehicle code and state laws apply

Miscellaneous Regulations

	Swimming is permitted in designated areas ONLY
	Firearms are prohibited inside of the park
	Speed limit for vehicles on a roadway inside the park gate is 15 mph
	Alcoholic beverages are prohibited unless a special permit is obtained
	The use or possession of glass containers is prohibited
	No animals are allowed in park during a special event, the City leash law pertains to all other open hours of operation

Motor Boat & Personal Watercraft Requirements

	The Berenda Reservoir waterway is limited to 15 launched vessels at any one time (first-come, first-serve basis)
	All waterway users MUST adhere to all rules and regulations; strict enforcement will be implemented
	All boating laws will be in effect and enforced on the waterway
	Boaters are obligated to signal when skiers are down; other boats are to yield the right-of-way in a counter clockwise direction
	Limit skiers to two (2), except one (1) only on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
	No person under 16 years of age may operate a motorboat or personal watercraft, must be accompanied by person over 18 years of age. (CH&N Code 658.5)
	Intoxicated Operation, First Conviction: Any person convicted of operating a motorboat under the influence of drugs or alcohol must be ordered by the court to take a Boating Safety Course approved by the Department of Boating and Waterways
	Limit of vessels or speed enforcement by the Chowchilla Police Department may be changed to a safer limit for users on the reservoir, as deemed necessary

Additional Information

	All accidents are to be reported to the Chowchilla Police Department at (559) 665-8600 or 911 in case of emergency
	Special events may be regulated by separate established policies

The list of rules and regulations is not all-inclusive for Berenda Reservoir but only highlights rules of utmost importance. For additional information, contact the Chowchilla Police Department at (559) 665-8600. Your cooperation on the waterways is appreciated!

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