Novato Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Novato Creek, also known as Stafford Lake, is a vital water resource in Novato, California, owned and regulated by the state's Department of Water Resources for the safety of dams.


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Summary

Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a dam height of 71 feet and a hydraulic height of 53 feet. Completed in 1951, the earth-type dam spans 650 feet and provides a storage capacity of 4,430 acre-feet.

With a drainage area of 8.64 square miles, Novato Creek serves as a crucial water supply and flood control mechanism for the region. The dam's high hazard potential is mitigated by regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in September 2017 deeming its condition satisfactory. The emergency action plan for the dam was last reviewed in January 2021, ensuring that proper guidelines are in place for any potential risks.

Novato Creek's significance lies in its role in managing water resources and reducing flood risks for the community. Its strategic location in Marin County, California, under the jurisdiction of the San Francisco District, highlights its importance in maintaining water supply and safeguarding against potential hazards. As climate change intensifies, the effective management of Novato Creek becomes even more critical in sustaining water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

71

River Or Stream

Novato Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

195

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

8.64

Nid Storage

4430

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

71
       
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.