Rector Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rector Creek, located in Yountville, California, is a state-regulated water resource primarily used for irrigation and water supply purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The earth dam, standing at a height of 164 feet with a hydraulic height of 155 feet, was completed in 1946 and has a storage capacity of 4,587 acre-feet. With a surface area of 82 acres and a drainage area of 10.7 square miles, Rector Creek plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety and regulatory purposes, Rector Creek has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections and enforcement measures ensure the dam's integrity and overall safety. The emergency action plan (EAP) for Rector Creek was last revised in March 2020 to meet guidelines for risk assessment and management, providing a comprehensive framework for responding to potential emergencies.

As a vital component of the water infrastructure in Napa County, Rector Creek serves as a key resource for agricultural and domestic water needs. Its strategic location and efficient operation demonstrate the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. Enthusiasts in water resource and climate studies can appreciate the role of Rector Creek in the larger context of environmental stewardship and resilience to ensure water security for future generations.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

890

Dam Height

164

River Or Stream

Rector Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

82

Hydraulic Height

155

Drainage Area

10.7

Nid Storage

4587

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

164
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.