Dry Creek
Key Takeaway
Dry Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 30 ft (taller than 30.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 470 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 330 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 47 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00811 |
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
Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Marsh Creek
Contra Costa, CA
High Hazard 59 ftDeer Creek
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High Hazard 29 ftUpper Sand Creek Detention Basin
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High Hazard 40 ftLos Vaqueros
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High Hazard 231 ftAntioch Reservoir
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High Hazard 30 ftContra Loma
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High Hazard 82 ftBethany Forebay
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 95 ftClifton Court Forebay
Contra Costa, CA
Low Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dry Creek?
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 Dry Creek?
Dry Creek is owned by Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dry Creek built?
Dry Creek was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Dry Creek?
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 Dry Creek?
Dry Creek has a dam height of 30 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 Dry Creek last inspected?
Dry Creek was last inspected on March 9, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.