Spencer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spencer Lake, located in Burlingame, California, is a vital water resource managed by local government authorities for flood risk reduction in the area.


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Summary

The earth dam, standing at a height of 87 feet and completed in 1876, serves as a protective barrier along the Tr S Francisco Bay. With a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 4 acres, Spencer Lake plays a crucial role in managing water levels and drainage in the region.

Despite its age, Spencer Lake's dam is in satisfactory condition according to the latest assessment in September 2017. The high hazard potential of the dam necessitates regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2020. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in March 2021, ensuring readiness in case of any unforeseen emergencies. With its strategic location and historical significance in flood control, Spencer Lake remains a key feature in California's water resource infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Spencer Lake not only for its engineering marvel as an earth dam but also for its ongoing role in safeguarding the surrounding area from flood risks. The presence of state regulatory agencies overseeing its operation, inspection, and enforcement further highlights the importance of Spencer Lake in maintaining water safety and security in San Mateo County. As a part of the larger network managed by local government authorities, Spencer Lake stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1876

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

87

River Or Stream

Tr S Francisco Bay

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

81.7

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

73

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

87
       
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.