Felt Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Felt Lake, located in Palo Alto, California, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for water supply purposes, including irrigation.


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Summary

The dam, constructed in 1930, stands at a height of 67 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 900 acre-feet. With a surface area of 40 acres and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, Felt Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Felt Lake is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in January 2021. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the reservoir has been prepared and updated periodically, meeting guidelines to mitigate potential risks.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Santa Clara County, Felt Lake serves as a vital water source for the local community and contributes to the ecological balance of the area. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvel of the earth dam, the historic significance of its construction, and the ongoing efforts to maintain its integrity for the benefit of both humans and the environment.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

67

River Or Stream

Tr Los Trancos Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

60.5

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

900

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

67
       
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.