Mustang Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mustang Creek, located in Merced, California, is a key water resource managed by the local government with oversight from the Department of Water Resources and Safety of Dams.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 190 acres, Mustang Creek plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

The dam's significant hazard potential is closely monitored through regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of September 2017. The local government ensures that necessary regulatory measures, inspections, and enforcement actions are in place to maintain the dam's integrity and safety standards. While no spillway or outlet gates are currently reported, the dam's construction and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to effective flood control and water management strategies in the region.

Mustang Creek's strategic location and purposeful design highlight its importance in safeguarding the community of Montpelier and its surroundings from potential flood risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources and hydrological patterns, the responsible management and maintenance of dams like Mustang Creek are essential for ensuring long-term water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. With ongoing regulatory oversight and periodic assessments, Mustang Creek stands as a vital asset in the region's water infrastructure, serving as a testament to effective flood risk reduction efforts driven by local government collaboration and sound engineering practices.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Mustang Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

190

Hydraulic Height

8.1

Drainage Area

12.1

Nid Storage

700

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.