North Fork Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hawkins Kelly Cabin Can
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Santa Clara, California, the North Fork dam, also known as Pacheco Lake, is a vital public utility structure managed by the Department of Water Resources with a high hazard potential.
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Summary
Built in 1939, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 100 feet and holds a storage capacity of 6150 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water supply for irrigation and local communities in the region. Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated on Pacheco Creek in Hollister, the North Fork dam poses a significant risk due to its poor condition and high hazard potential. With a drainage area of 67.2 square miles and a surface area of 197 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. However, its outdated design and lack of recent updates raise concerns about its ability to withstand potential disasters like floods or earthquakes, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding communities.
As a key water supply infrastructure in Santa Clara, California, the North Fork dam faces challenges in maintaining its structural integrity and safety. With a history of poor condition assessment and a high hazard potential, the dam requires ongoing attention and investment to ensure its continued functionality and to protect downstream areas from potential risks. It is essential for state agencies like the Department of Water Resources to prioritize the maintenance and monitoring of this critical infrastructure to safeguard water resources and the local community's well-being in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
100 |
River Or Stream |
Pacheco Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
197 |
Hydraulic Height |
88 |
Drainage Area |
67.2 |
Nid Storage |
6150 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
100 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wilson Camp
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Coit Lake Horse Camp
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Coit Horse Camp
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North Fork
San Luis Reservoir
Pacheco State Park
Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Area
San Luis Reservoir Wildlife Area
Henry Coe State Park
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area