Lafranchi Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lafranchi Creek in Sonoma, California, is a privately owned water supply dam constructed in 1982.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a length of 965 feet. Its primary purpose is for irrigation and water supply, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Located in the city of Kellogg, Lafranchi Creek Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. The dam has a significant hazard potential, but its condition assessment in 2017 deemed it satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in August 2020. The dam is designed to mitigate risks and meet emergency preparedness guidelines, although specific measures for risk management and emergency response are not outlined in the available data.

With a focus on water supply, Lafranchi Creek Dam serves as a key infrastructure for the community, supporting agricultural irrigation and domestic water needs. Its strategic location in Sonoma County underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and shifting hydrological patterns. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation can appreciate the role that Lafranchi Creek Dam plays in safeguarding water security in the region while navigating the challenges posed by an evolving climate landscape.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

965

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Lafranchi Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.