Matanzas Creek
Key Takeaway
Matanzas 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 | 95 ft (taller than 80.6% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 685 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 62 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00794 |
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
Sonoma County Water Agency
Local Government
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Low Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Matanzas Creek?
Matanzas 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 Matanzas Creek?
Matanzas Creek is owned by Sonoma County Water Agency (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Matanzas Creek built?
Matanzas 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 Matanzas Creek?
Matanzas 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 Matanzas Creek?
Matanzas Creek has a dam height of 95 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 Matanzas Creek last inspected?
Matanzas Creek was last inspected on September 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.