Lake Ranch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Ranch, also known as Lake Ranch Reservoir, is a significant water supply reservoir located in Saratoga, California.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by a public utility, this earth dam structure was completed in 1877 and stands at a height of 38 feet with a hydraulic height of 26.9 feet. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet and covers an area of 18 acres, drawing water from Beardsley Creek.

Maintained by the California Department of Water Resources, Lake Ranch serves as a crucial water resource for the region, supporting various water supply purposes. Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam is classified as having significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection in September 2020 revealed no immediate concerns, but the dam remains under close monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

With its historical significance dating back over a century, Lake Ranch Reservoir stands as a testament to California's ongoing efforts to manage and regulate its water resources effectively. The presence of state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms ensures that the dam continues to provide essential water supply services while mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. As climate change poses new challenges to water resource management, Lake Ranch remains a vital asset in securing reliable water access for the community it serves.

Year Completed

1877

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Beardsley Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

26.9

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

215

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

38
       
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.