Novato Creek
Key Takeaway
Novato Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 71 ft (taller than 73.4% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 195 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00321 |
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
North Marin County Water District
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Big Rock Ranch
Marin, CA
High Hazard 45 ftVonsen
Marin, CA
High Hazard 35 ftDolcini
Marin, CA
Low Hazard 35 ftRedwood Landfill Leachate Impoundment
Marin, CA
Significant Hazard 10 ftSeeger
Marin, CA
High Hazard 115 ftBrowns Lane
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 32 ftPeters
Marin, CA
High Hazard 230 ftSleepy Hollow No. 2
Sonoma, CA
High Hazard 39 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Novato Creek?
Novato 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 Novato Creek?
Novato Creek is owned by North Marin County Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Novato Creek built?
Novato Creek was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Novato Creek?
Novato Creek serves the following purposes: Other, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Novato Creek?
Novato Creek has a dam height of 71 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 Novato Creek last inspected?
Novato Creek was last inspected on April 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.