Piner Creek
Key Takeaway
Piner Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 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 | 28 ft (taller than 27.2% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 205 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 172 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 19 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00792 |
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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High Hazard 67 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Piner Creek?
Piner 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 Piner Creek?
Piner 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 Piner Creek built?
Piner Creek was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Piner Creek?
Piner 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 Piner Creek?
Piner Creek has a dam height of 28 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 Piner Creek last inspected?
Piner Creek was last inspected on September 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.