Debell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Debell, also known as Lake Kathryne, is a local government-owned dam located in Santa Clara, California, specifically in the city of Gilroy.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 53 feet and serves the primary purpose of water supply for irrigation and other purposes. The dam has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and is situated on the Tr Bodfish Creek, within the Sacramento District.

With a high hazard potential, Debell undergoes regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations set by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) under the Safety of Dams program. The dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in September 2017, with a comprehensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place to manage potential risks. The dam's location and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service make it a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams for water supply purposes will find Debell an intriguing case study. Its strategic location, storage capacity, and regulatory oversight provide insights into the challenges and measures involved in ensuring the safety and efficiency of vital water infrastructure. With its association with the Tr Bodfish Creek and the Sacramento District, Debell stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in California's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

Tr Bodfish Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

0.72

Nid Storage

120

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

53
       
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.