San Pablo Dam Seismic Upgrade
This massive seismic project, now complete, reinforces San Pablo Dam
The San Pablo Dam Seismic Upgrade which began in 2008 was completed in September 2010. The seismic upgrade consisted of construction of a larger buttress and improvements to the foundation to seismically strengthen the dam. The reservoir level limits have returned to their pre-2004 status and the dam and reservoir are fully operational.
The main access road to the East Bay Regional Park District's Kennedy Grove from San Pablo Dam Road is open 7 days a week and the Hillside entrance has been closed.
As part of the mitigation plan for San Pablo Dam, EBMUD is creating habitat for California red-legged frogs, restoring existing stream channels, constructing new wetlands, and enhancing habitat for Alameda whipsnakes in the Pavon Creek and Scow Canyon Area.
Background
The science of seismic safety evolves over time and the California Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) works with dam owners to evaluate the seismic safety of dams throughout the state on a regular basis. A 2004 study of San Pablo Dam, which is located between the towns of El Sobrante and Orinda, predicted a 7.5 earthquake on the Hayward Fault could cause the dam to slump allowing water to flow over the top, resulting in flooding downstream. Based on the study's recommendations, EBMUD took immediate action and lowered the water level behind the dam to protect downstream communities until the seismic work was completed.
Contact Information
Michelle Blackwell, Community Affairs Representative II
Email: mblackwe@ebmud.com
Phone: (510) 287-2053