Martis Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Martis Creek Dam, also known as Martis Creek Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Nevada County, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction but also supports hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities. Standing at 93 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 108 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 22,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4,060 cubic feet per second.

Despite a history of water seepage issues, Martis Creek Dam has undergone significant modifications to improve its performance and reduce risks. Recent risk assessments have categorized the dam as having a moderate risk level, with measures in place to prevent water seepage and overtopping. The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) actively manages the dam, working with local emergency managers, updating emergency action plans, and conducting regular maintenance and inspections to ensure public safety. While concerns remain about potential dam failure scenarios, the implementation of risk reduction measures and emergency preparedness plans help mitigate these risks and protect downstream communities.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

2673

Dam Height

93

River Or Stream

MARTIS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

768

Hydraulic Height

108

Drainage Area

39

Nid Storage

20400

Structural Height

113

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

113
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.