Upper Settling Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Upper Settling Basin, located in Santa Clara, California, is a private water resource structure regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR) for safety and compliance.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, standing at a height of 57.9 feet with a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, serves primarily as a water supply reservoir for the surrounding area. Despite being classified as low-hazard potential with fair condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Managed by a private owner, the Upper Settling Basin plays a crucial role in water supply and tailings management in the region. The dam, completed at an unknown date, features a hydraulic height of 54.9 feet and a length of 120 feet. With its strategic location in an unnamed river or stream, the basin contributes to water resource management efforts in the area. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to mitigate any potential risks.

The Upper Settling Basin, situated within the Sacramento District, showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With a focus on water supply and tailings management, this private-owned dam is a key player in ensuring sustainable water access for the community. As it continues to be monitored and regulated by state agencies, the basin's role in mitigating water-related risks and supporting environmental sustainability remains essential in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

57.9

River Or Stream

Un-named

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

54.9

Nid Storage

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

58
       
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.