Big Dry Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alluvial Drain Detention Redbank
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Dry Creek, located in Clovis, California, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure with a primary purpose of managing water flow from Big Dry Creek and Dog Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a hydraulic height of 40.5 feet, providing storage of up to 30,200 acre-feet of water. With a drainage area of 82 square miles and a surface area of 2151 acres, Big Dry Creek plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) and regulated by the Safety of Dams program, Big Dry Creek is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as satisfactory as of September 2017. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to guide response efforts and protect downstream communities. With its critical role in flood risk reduction and water management, Big Dry Creek serves as a vital resource for the region.
As part of the Sacramento District and overseen by federal agencies, Big Dry Creek is a key component in the water resource infrastructure of Fresno County. Its strategic location and design contribute to the overall flood protection measures in the area, safeguarding residents and property from potential inundation. With a rich history dating back to its completion in the mid-20th century, Big Dry Creek continues to be a cornerstone in the region's water management efforts, demonstrating the importance of proactive infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate variability and extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
25300 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
Big Dry Cr & Dog Cr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2151 |
Hydraulic Height |
40.5 |
Drainage Area |
82 |
Nid Storage |
30200 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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