Martis Creek Dam

MARTIS CREEK· Nevada, California· Built 1972· Earth· 93 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Hydroelectric Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Martis Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 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 93 ft (taller than 80.3% in CA)
Dam Length2,673 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage34.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage22.0K acre-ft
Surface Area768 acres
Drainage Area39 sq mi
Max Discharge4,060 cfs
Year Completed1972 (54 years old)
NID IDCA10108

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 17, 2021
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Sacramento District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Martis Creek Dam?

Martis Creek Dam 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 Martis Creek Dam?

Martis Creek Dam is owned by USACE - Sacramento District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Martis Creek Dam built?

Martis Creek Dam was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Martis Creek Dam?

Martis Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Martis Creek Dam?

Martis Creek Dam has a dam height of 93 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 Martis Creek Dam last inspected?

Martis Creek Dam was last inspected on September 17, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.