Crystal Springs Reservoir is located near San Mateo, California, and was created by the construction of the Crystal Springs Dam in 1878. The reservoir is operated by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and serves as a major water supply for the Bay Area, providing up to 23 million gallons of water per day. The area is known for its unique hydrology, as it is fed by both surface flow and snowpack from the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. The reservoir also serves as a popular recreational destination for activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating, and is surrounded by several parks and nature preserves. While there is some agricultural use in the surrounding area, the primary focus of the reservoir is on providing a reliable water source for the region.