Coyote Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coyote Lake, also known simply as Coyote, is a significant water resource located in Santa Clara County, California.


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Summary

This public utility serves as a vital source of water supply for irrigation and general water supply purposes in the region. The dam, completed in 1936, stands at a height of 140 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 23,666 acre-feet.

Situated along the Coyote Creek, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a drainage area of 120 square miles. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, yet its condition assessment remains satisfactory as of September 2017. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam continues to operate effectively, ensuring the safety and reliability of the water supply for the community in Morgan Hill and beyond.

Despite its age, Coyote Dam remains a robust structure, supported by regular inspections and a comprehensive emergency action plan. Its strategic location within the Sacramento District underscores its importance in the region's water management system. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvel and ecological significance of Coyote Lake as it continues to serve as a critical water storage facility in California.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

980

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

Coyote Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

635

Hydraulic Height

115.2

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

23666

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

140
       
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.