Los Vaqueros
Key Takeaway
Los Vaqueros is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1997 and is 29 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 | 231 ft (taller than 96.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 1,280 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 160.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,836 acres |
| Drainage Area | 19 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1997 (29 years old) |
| NID ID | CA01396 |
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 Water District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Marsh Creek
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High Hazard 59 ftDry Creek
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High Hazard 30 ftDeer Creek
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High Hazard 29 ftUpper Sand Creek Detention Basin
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High Hazard 40 ftBethany Forebay
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High Hazard 95 ftClifton Court Forebay
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Low Hazard 34 ftPatterson
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High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Los Vaqueros?
Los Vaqueros 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 Los Vaqueros?
Los Vaqueros is owned by Contra Costa Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Los Vaqueros built?
Los Vaqueros was completed in 1997, making it 29 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 Los Vaqueros?
Los Vaqueros serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Los Vaqueros?
Los Vaqueros has a dam height of 231 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 Los Vaqueros last inspected?
Los Vaqueros was last inspected on November 4, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.