Donovan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Donovan, a private-owned dam located in Windsor, California, plays a crucial role in water supply and irrigation in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Situated on the Tr Windsor Creek, Donovan serves as a vital infrastructure for managing water resources in Sonoma County.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams division, Donovan is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020. With its proximity to the Sacramento District and under the representation of Congressman Jared Huffman, Donovan continues to be a key player in water management efforts in the area.

With its strategic location and primary purpose of water supply, Donovan exemplifies the importance of dams in ensuring water availability for irrigation and other uses. As a part of the broader infrastructure managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam serves as a critical component in the water system of Sonoma County. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike recognize Donovan's significance in maintaining the delicate balance of water supply and demand in the region, making it a noteworthy feature in California's water management landscape.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

295

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

Tr Windsor Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

40
       
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.