Los Banos Creek Detention Dam, located in Los Banos, California, is a federal-owned earth dam designed for flood risk reduction along the Los Banos Creek. Completed in 1965 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this dam stands at a height of 167 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 51,920 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 34,500 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt.

This high-hazard potential dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 8,600 cubic feet per second. While its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, the dam also offers recreational opportunities in the area. Despite its age, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, and the last inspection was conducted in March 2020. With a moderate risk rating and emergency action plan last revised in May 2017, Los Banos Creek Detention Dam remains an essential structure for water resource management in Merced County.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Los Banos Creek Detention Dam serves as a significant example of federal infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and manage water levels in California. With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, this earth dam continues to play a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. As a key feature in the Bureau of Reclamation's portfolio, the dam's operational and regulatory aspects are overseen by the federal agency, ensuring its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction and water resource management.