Mill Creek, located in Swanton, California, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1889 for the primary purpose of water supply. Standing at a height of 76 feet, with a hydraulic height of 62.5 feet and a storage capacity of 223 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a drainage area of 0.94 square miles and a surface area of 12 acres, Mill Creek serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams program, Mill Creek is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition, although it carries a high hazard potential due to its height and storage capacity. With the dam's last inspection conducted in December 2020 and an emergency action plan in place, measures are in place to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding area in the event of an emergency.

As a key component of the water supply infrastructure in Santa Cruz County, Mill Creek is a symbol of the intersection between water resource management and climate resilience. Its historic significance and ongoing role in supplying water to the region highlight the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to ensure the sustainability and safety of water resources for future generations.