Rock Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rock Creek, also known as Chiquita Lake, is a private dam located in El Dorado County, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1932 with a height of 35 feet and a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet, this earth-type structure primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam is regulated and inspected by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and complies with state permitting and enforcement requirements.

Situated in Coloma, Rock Creek dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017. With a drainage area of 0.54 square miles and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. While the structure has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its continued safety and reliability for flood risk reduction, irrigation, tailings, and water supply purposes.

Managed by a private owner, Rock Creek dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the area, safeguarding against potential flooding events and supporting various water-related activities. With its strategic location and regulatory oversight by the state of California, the dam serves as a key asset in maintaining water security and resilience in the region, showcasing the importance of effective dam management in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1932

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Rock Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

28.5

Drainage Area

0.54

Nid Storage

34

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.