Lake Ranch
Key Takeaway
Lake Ranch is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1877 and is 149 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 43.2% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 160 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1877 (149 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00676 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
San Jose Water Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Upper Howell
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Significant Hazard 36 ftLower Howell
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Significant Hazard 39 ftJames J. Lenihan
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High Hazard 208 ftRinconada Reservoir
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High Hazard 40 ftStevens Creek
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High Hazard 132 ftUpper Settling Basin
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Low Hazard 58 ftVasona Percolating
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High Hazard 34 ftPond 11
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High Hazard 80 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Ranch?
Lake Ranch is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Ranch?
Lake Ranch is owned by San Jose Water Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Ranch built?
Lake Ranch was completed in 1877, making it 149 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Ranch?
Lake Ranch serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Ranch?
Lake Ranch has a dam height of 38 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Lake Ranch last inspected?
Lake Ranch was last inspected on July 21, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.