Upper Howell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Howell, also known as Howell Reservoir, is a public utility water supply located in Los Gatos, California.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1878, stands at 36 feet high and holds a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet. Situated on Rundell Creek, the reservoir covers an area of 13 acres and serves as a critical source of water for the surrounding area. Managed by the California Department of Water Resources, Upper Howell is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and reliability.

With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2017, Upper Howell is a crucial piece of infrastructure that requires regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has a hydraulic height of 33 feet and a length of 640 feet, showcasing its importance in managing water resources in Santa Clara County. The reservoir plays a vital role in providing water supply for the region, reflecting its primary purpose and role as a public utility infrastructure.

As part of the Sacramento District, Upper Howell contributes to water management efforts in California, supporting the state's water supply needs. The dam's location, design, and storage capacity make it a key component in the region's water infrastructure, ensuring the availability of water for various purposes. Despite its age, Upper Howell continues to serve its purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of proper regulation and maintenance for sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1878

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Rundell Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

243

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.