Canada Road Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Canada Road is a state-owned structure in San Mateo, California, designed for flood risk reduction along the San Mateo Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and spans a length of 1300 feet, with a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, regular state inspections ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams jurisdiction, Canada Road plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply reliability in the region. With a focus on state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, this dam exemplifies proactive management practices that prioritize public safety and environmental protection. As a key component of the state's infrastructure, Canada Road underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.

Located in the San Francisco District and overseen by state agencies, Canada Road exemplifies California's commitment to effective dam management and flood risk reduction. With an emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance, this structure showcases the state's proactive approach to water resource management in the context of evolving climate conditions. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the critical role of dams like Canada Road is essential for safeguarding communities and ecosystems in the face of increasing water-related challenges.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

Tr San Mateo Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

74

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

52
       
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.