San Pablo Clearwell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

San Pablo Clearwell, located in Kensington, California, is a vital infrastructure for water supply, serving as a public utility.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This offstream dam, completed in 1922, stands at a height of 42 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. With a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams in California.

Despite its age, San Pablo Clearwell continues to provide essential water resources to the region, with a structural height of 40 feet and a length of 627 feet. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, reflecting its critical role in ensuring a reliable water source for Contra Costa County. With regular inspections and enforcement measures in place, the dam maintains a satisfactory condition to safeguard against potential risks.

Under the oversight of state regulators and local officials, including Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, San Pablo Clearwell remains a key component of California's water infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources, the importance of well-maintained dams like San Pablo Clearwell becomes increasingly evident, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and investment in sustainable water management practices to ensure a resilient water supply for the future.

Year Completed

1922

Dam Length

627

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

17

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.