Guadalupe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Guadalupe Reservoir, located in San Jose, California, is a key water supply structure managed by a public utility.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 142 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,460 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other uses, Guadalupe Reservoir plays a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the surrounding area.

The dam, situated on Guadalupe Creek, is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is regularly inspected. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 revealed it to be in fair condition. Its last inspection in December 2020 indicated a satisfactory state, with regular maintenance and adherence to safety protocols contributing to its reliability in safeguarding the water resources of Santa Clara County.

As a vital infrastructure for water management in the region, Guadalupe Reservoir highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and role in providing water supply, the dam serves as a critical asset in addressing the challenges of water security in the face of changing climate conditions, reflecting the ongoing efforts to ensure the sustainable use of water resources in California.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

695

Dam Height

142

River Or Stream

Guadalupe Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

132

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

3460

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

142
       
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.