San Lorenzo Creek
Key Takeaway
San Lorenzo Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 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 | 65 ft (taller than 70.3% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 385 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 24 acres |
| Drainage Area | 20 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00841 |
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
Alameda County Public Works Agency
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Cull Creek
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 55 ftWard Creek
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 71 ftAlmond
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 30 ftChabot
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 142 ftNew Upper San Leandro
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 182 ftDunsmuir Reservoir
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 43 ftDecoto Reservoir
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 33 ftQuarry Pits
Alameda, CA
High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of San Lorenzo Creek?
San Lorenzo 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 San Lorenzo Creek?
San Lorenzo Creek is owned by Alameda County Public Works Agency (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was San Lorenzo Creek built?
San Lorenzo Creek was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 San Lorenzo Creek?
San Lorenzo Creek serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is San Lorenzo Creek?
San Lorenzo Creek has a dam height of 65 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 San Lorenzo Creek last inspected?
San Lorenzo Creek was last inspected on July 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.