Brush Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brush Creek is a vital water resource in El Dorado County, California, known for its hydroelectric capabilities and recreational opportunities.


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Summary

Managed by a public utility, the dam was designed by Bechtel and completed in 1970, standing at a impressive height of 213 feet with a storage capacity of 1350 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, serving as a key component in the region's energy infrastructure.

Located in Coloma, the Brush Creek dam is regulated by various state and federal agencies including the California Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment score, the dam undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and stability. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, providing both power and recreational opportunities for the community.

With a drainage area of 8 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 13,250 cubic feet per second, Brush Creek dam is a key feature in the region's water management system. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type and significant hazard potential highlight the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and emergency preparedness. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Brush Creek serves as a reminder of the essential role dams play in mitigating risks and providing sustainable water solutions for the future.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

213

River Or Stream

Brush Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

202

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

1350

Structural Height

213

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

213
       
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.