Fancher Creek Detention Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Fresno, California, Fancher Creek Detention is a vital public utility structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Fancher Creek river.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1,891 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 206 acres. With a drainage area of 60.4 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding risks in the region.

Managed and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program, Fancher Creek Detention is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of September 2017, with regular inspections conducted to uphold safety standards. In case of emergencies, detailed emergency action plans are prepared and updated as needed to safeguard the surrounding communities and infrastructure.

Representing a key component of flood management infrastructure in the area, Fancher Creek Detention underscores the importance of water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its strategic location and operational effectiveness contribute to protecting against potential flood events and enhancing the overall safety and security of Fresno and its surrounding areas. As a critical public utility structure, Fancher Creek Detention stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to address water-related challenges and ensure sustainable resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

2860

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Fancher Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

206

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

60.4

Nid Storage

1891

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.