La Contenta
Key Takeaway
La Contenta is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 2002 and is 24 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 43 ft (taller than 51.5% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 565 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 172 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 2002 (24 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01464 |
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
Calaveras County Water District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
New Hogan Dam
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 155 ftBevanda
Calaveras, CA
Significant Hazard 29 ftFerrario
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 25 ftHein
Calaveras, CA
Low Hazard 16 ftChristensen No. 1
Calaveras, CA
Low Hazard 33 ftJackson Creek Spillway
Amador, CA
High Hazard 37 ftSalt Springs Valley
Calaveras, CA
High Hazard 47 ftJackson Creek
Amador, CA
High Hazard 193 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of La Contenta?
La Contenta 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 La Contenta?
La Contenta is owned by Calaveras County Water District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was La Contenta built?
La Contenta was completed in 2002, making it 24 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 La Contenta?
La Contenta serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is La Contenta?
La Contenta has a dam height of 43 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 La Contenta last inspected?
La Contenta was last inspected on September 24, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.