Lafayette Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lafayette, also known as the Lafayette Reservoir, is a vital water resource located in Lafayette, California.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the state, this public utility serves as a key source of water supply for the region. The dam, completed in 1929, stands at a height of 132 feet and has a storage capacity of 4250 acre-feet. Situated on Lafayette Creek, the reservoir covers a surface area of 126 acres and has a drainage area of 1.34 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam at Lafayette is in fair condition as of the last assessment in September 2017. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in December 2020. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in January 2020. Operated by the state and meeting regulatory guidelines for safety, Lafayette serves as a critical infrastructure for water supply and management in Contra Costa County.

With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Lafayette plays a crucial role in ensuring water security for the surrounding communities. As a well-maintained earth dam, it stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management and safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lafayette represents a key piece of infrastructure that showcases the intersection of public utility, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

132

River Or Stream

Lafayette Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

126

Hydraulic Height

115.6

Drainage Area

1.34

Nid Storage

4250

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

132
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.