Healdsburg Recreation Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Healdsburg Recreation, nestled in Sonoma, California, along the picturesque Russian River, serves as a vital water supply source while also offering recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1953, stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 330 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 275 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of water supply, the dam also supports recreational activities, making it a multifaceted resource for the community.

Maintained by local government authorities and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources for safety, Healdsburg Recreation boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of 2017. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. The surrounding area offers a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts, with a surface area of 60 acres and a drainage area of 803 square miles, creating a tranquil environment for nature lovers and climate enthusiasts to explore.

With Congressman Jared Huffman representing the area, Healdsburg Recreation serves as a model for sustainable water resource management and recreational development. As a key feature of the San Francisco District, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing water supply needs with environmental preservation and recreation opportunities. The facility's commitment to regular inspections and enforcement measures underscores its dedication to ensuring the safety and longevity of this essential infrastructure for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Russian River

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

803

Nid Storage

275

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds