Los Vaqueros Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Brentwood, California, Los Vaqueros is a key water supply reservoir in Contra Costa County.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this earth dam stands at 231 feet tall with a storage capacity of 160,000 acre-feet, serving as a vital resource for the region. The reservoir's primary purpose is water supply, with the surrounding area covering 1836 acres and draining a 18.75 square mile watershed that includes the Kellogg Creek.

Managed by a public utility and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for dam safety, Los Vaqueros has a high hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition following a 2017 assessment. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks. With its strategic location and critical role in supplying water to the region, Los Vaqueros serves as a symbol of sustainable water management in the face of climate challenges, making it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

1280

Dam Height

231

River Or Stream

Kellogg Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1836

Hydraulic Height

217

Drainage Area

18.75

Nid Storage

160000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

231
       
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.