Coyote Percolation Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coyote Percolation is a vital water resource infrastructure located in San Jose, California, along the Coyote Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1934, this buttress dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, serving primarily for irrigation and water supply purposes. With a satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, Coyote Percolation is under state regulation and inspection to ensure its safety and functionality.

Managed by a public utility, this dam plays a crucial role in water management for the Santa Clara County region. Its location within the Sacramento District and close proximity to urban areas like San Jose highlight the importance of balancing water supply needs with environmental sustainability. The dam's last inspection in April 2020 revealed its satisfactory condition, but ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

With a history dating back to the early 20th century, Coyote Percolation continues to be a key component of the local water infrastructure. As climate change impacts water resources and availability, the importance of maintaining and upgrading dams like Coyote Percolation to meet evolving needs and standards becomes increasingly crucial. As a strategic water supply asset in California, this dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage water resources effectively in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

204

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Coyote Creek

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

227

Nid Storage

72

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.