Anderson Dam, also known as Leroy Anderson, is a rockfill dam located in Morgan Hill, California, along the Coyote Creek. Completed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 240 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply. With a maximum storage capacity of 89,073 acre-feet, Anderson Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Managed by a public utility, Anderson Dam is regulated by the Department of Water Resources and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 95,800 cubic feet per second. The dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
As a key water infrastructure in Santa Clara County, Anderson Dam plays a vital role in the region's water supply and flood protection. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in the dam's history, design features, and its importance in supporting various water-related activities in the area. Ongoing inspections and risk assessments ensure the safety and reliability of Anderson Dam for the surrounding communities and ecosystems.