Harold Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harold Reservoir, also known as Palmdale Lake, is a vital water resource located in Palmdale, California.


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Summary

Managed by a public utility, this reservoir serves as a crucial source of irrigation and water supply in the region. Constructed in 1891, the earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,870 acre-feet. With a surface area of 218 acres and a drainage area of 4.63 square miles, Harold Reservoir plays a significant role in water management for the surrounding area.

The dam's high hazard potential is closely monitored by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety and regulatory compliance. Despite its age, the reservoir's condition assessment remains satisfactory, as of the last inspection in January 2020. The emergency action plan (EAP) for Harold Reservoir is regularly updated to ensure that the reservoir meets safety guidelines and emergency response protocols. With its historical significance dating back over a century, Harold Reservoir continues to be a critical infrastructure supporting water supply and irrigation needs in the region.

Situated within the Los Angeles District, Harold Reservoir's location along the Tr Antelope Val River makes it a vital component of the water supply infrastructure in Southern California. As climate change impacts water resources, reservoirs like Harold play a crucial role in managing water availability and distribution for both agricultural and urban needs. The reservoir's operational efficiency and maintenance standards align with state regulations, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the community. With ongoing efforts to enhance risk assessment and management measures, Harold Reservoir remains a key asset in addressing the challenges of water scarcity and climate variability in the region.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

2800

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Tr Antelope Val

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

218

Hydraulic Height

18.5

Drainage Area

4.63

Nid Storage

3870

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.