Sulphur Creek
Key Takeaway
Sulphur Creek is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 42 ft (taller than 50.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 485 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 520 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40 acres |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00873 |
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
County of Orange
Local Government
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High Hazard 58 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sulphur Creek?
Sulphur 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 Sulphur Creek?
Sulphur Creek is owned by County of Orange (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sulphur Creek built?
Sulphur Creek was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Sulphur Creek?
Sulphur Creek serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Sulphur Creek?
Sulphur Creek has a dam height of 42 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 Sulphur Creek last inspected?
Sulphur Creek was last inspected on February 24, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.