Upper Howell
Key Takeaway
Upper Howell is classified as significant hazard in California. It was completed in 1878 and is 148 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 36 ft (taller than 40.1% in CA) |
| Dam Length | 640 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 243 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 13 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1878 (148 years old) |
| NID ID | CA00678 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
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
Lower Howell
Santa Clara, CA
Significant Hazard 39 ftJames J. Lenihan
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 208 ftLake Ranch
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 38 ftRinconada Reservoir
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 40 ftVasona Percolating
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 34 ftAustrian
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 185 ftNewell
Santa Cruz, CA
High Hazard 182 ftStevens Creek
Santa Clara, CA
High Hazard 132 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Howell?
Upper Howell is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Upper Howell?
Upper Howell is owned by San Jose Water Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Howell built?
Upper Howell was completed in 1878, making it 148 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 Upper Howell?
Upper Howell 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 Upper Howell?
Upper Howell has a dam height of 36 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 Upper Howell last inspected?
Upper Howell was last inspected on July 21, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.