Anderson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Anderson Dam, also known as Leroy Anderson, is a rockfill dam located in Morgan Hill, California, along the Coyote Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 240 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 89,073 acre-feet, Anderson Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by a public utility, Anderson Dam is regulated by the Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 95,800 cubic feet per second. The dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

As a key water infrastructure in Santa Clara County, Anderson Dam plays a vital role in the region's water supply and flood protection. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in the dam's history, design features, and its importance in supporting various water-related activities in the area. Ongoing inspections and risk assessments ensure the safety and reliability of Anderson Dam for the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1380

Dam Height

240

River Or Stream

Coyote Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1240

Hydraulic Height

185

Drainage Area

193.4

Nid Storage

89073

Structural Height

204.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

240
       
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.