When I think about Anderson Dam, I think about what it means for the people of Santa Clara County. It is not just a structure holding water, it is a lifeline for our families, businesses, farms and our future. That’s why the seismic retrofit of Anderson Dam is Valley Water’s top priority.
One of the most exciting improvements is the addition of a labyrinth weir. This may sound technical, but the idea is simple: a zigzag-shaped wall that helps water flow more safely and efficiently from the reservoir into the North Channel of Coyote Creek. By folding the weir into a zigzag pattern, engineers increase its length without widening the creek.
This allows more water to pass at lower levels, which reduces erosion, improves habitat and most importantly, helps protect nearby communities during major storms. In short, this new weir will make Anderson Reservoir safer and more resilient for decades to come…