Briones
Key Takeaway
Briones is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 273 ft (taller than 97.8% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 2,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 67.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 735 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00172 |
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
East Bay Municipal Utility District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Lake Orinda
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Low Hazard 42 ftLafayette
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High Hazard 132 ftSobrante Clearwell
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High Hazard 28 ftPiedmont
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Low Hazard 64 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Briones?
Briones 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 Briones?
Briones is owned by East Bay Municipal Utility District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Briones built?
Briones was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Briones?
Briones serves the following purposes: Other, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Briones?
Briones has a dam height of 273 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 Briones last inspected?
Briones was last inspected on February 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.