Williams Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Williams Dam, located in Los Gatos, California, is a gravity type dam built in 1895 with a height of 69 feet and a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet on the Los Gatos Creek.


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Summary

Managed by a Public Utility, the dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the region. The dam is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment in September 2020 showing satisfactory condition and low hazard potential.

Despite its age, Williams Dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management in Santa Clara County. With a drainage area of 5.7 square miles and a surface area of 3 acres, the dam contributes to the water supply needs of the surrounding area. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan to ensure public safety and has designated emergency contacts to coordinate response efforts.

Located in a region susceptible to droughts and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns due to climate change, the maintenance and monitoring of Williams Dam are crucial for ensuring water security in the area. As a key infrastructure for water supply, the dam's continued operation and adherence to safety regulations are essential for mitigating risks and adapting to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1895

Dam Length

87

Dam Height

69

River Or Stream

Los Gatos Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

68

Drainage Area

5.7

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

69
       
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.