Vasona Percolating

Los Gatos Crk· Santa Clara, California· Built 1935· Earth· 34 ft tall
High Hazard Other Irrigation Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Vasona Percolating is classified as high hazard in California. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 34 ft (taller than 37.2% in CA)
Dam Length1,000 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage410 acre-ft
Surface Area58 acres
Drainage Area44 sq mi
Year Completed1935 (91 years old)
NID IDCA00291

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 1, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWR, Division of Safety of Dams

Ownership

Santa Clara Valley Water District

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Vasona Percolating?

Vasona Percolating 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 Vasona Percolating?

Vasona Percolating is owned by Santa Clara Valley Water District (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Vasona Percolating built?

Vasona Percolating was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Vasona Percolating?

Vasona Percolating serves the following purposes: Other, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Vasona Percolating?

Vasona Percolating has a dam height of 34 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 Vasona Percolating last inspected?

Vasona Percolating was last inspected on December 1, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.