Chorro Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chorro Creek, also known as Chorro Reservoir, is a state-regulated dam located in San Luis Obispo, California.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned by the state, this earth-type dam was completed in 1941 and serves primarily for water supply purposes, including irrigation. With a dam height of 77 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet, Chorro Creek plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being in satisfactory condition according to the last assessment in September 2017, Chorro Creek poses a high hazard potential. This emphasizes the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in August 2020, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance preparedness and response measures in case of any unforeseen events.

With its location in Camp San Luis Obispo, Chorro Creek is a vital infrastructure for water supply and irrigation in the area. Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and subject to state regulations, this dam underscores the significance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. The ongoing monitoring and risk assessment efforts are essential to safeguarding this critical water resource for the community's benefit.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

77

River Or Stream

Chorro Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

62

Drainage Area

3.22

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

77
       
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.