Lake Orinda
Key Takeaway
Lake Orinda is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 | 45 ft (taller than 54% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 360 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 111 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 474 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00659 |
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
Orinda Country Club
Private
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Low Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Orinda?
Lake Orinda 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 Lake Orinda?
Lake Orinda is owned by Orinda Country Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Orinda built?
Lake Orinda was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Lake Orinda?
Lake Orinda 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 Lake Orinda?
Lake Orinda has a dam height of 45 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 Lake Orinda last inspected?
Lake Orinda was last inspected on January 28, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.