Upper Sand Creek Detention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Upper Sand Creek Detention Basin in Contra Costa, California, is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure completed in 2014.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 895 acre-feet, serving its primary purpose effectively. The basin covers a surface area of 44 acres and plays a vital role in managing the flow of the Sand Creek river, safeguarding the surrounding areas from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), Safety of Dams division, the Upper Sand Creek Detention Basin is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2017, the basin remains a critical asset in the region's water resource management strategy. Despite lacking detailed risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans, the basin's presence aligns with the state's commitment to mitigating flood risks and protecting communities in California.

Supported by federal and state regulations, the Upper Sand Creek Detention Basin stands as a testament to proactive flood risk reduction efforts in the region. With a dedicated focus on safety and efficiency, this infrastructure project highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the basin serves as a symbol of resilience and preparedness in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

2014

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Sand Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

44

Hydraulic Height

35.5

Nid Storage

895

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.