Big Dry Creek
Key Takeaway
Big Dry Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 50 ft (taller than 59.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 25,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 30.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,151 acres |
| Drainage Area | 82 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01075 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Dry Creek?
Big Dry Creek is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Dry Creek?
Big Dry Creek is owned by Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Dry Creek built?
Big Dry Creek was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Big Dry Creek?
Big Dry Creek serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Dry Creek?
Big Dry Creek has a dam height of 50 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 Big Dry Creek last inspected?
Big Dry Creek was last inspected on January 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.