The Uvas Reservoir is an artificial lake located in Santa Clara County, California, southwest of the city of Morgan Hill. It is one of ten reservoirs managed by the Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) primarily for local water supply and flood control, and secondarily for recreation.
Location and Geography
Uvas Reservoir is situated in the eastern foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, approximately 6 miles (9.7 km) west of U.S. Route 101 and the city of Morgan Hill. The reservoir impounds the waters of Uvas Creek, which originates in the Santa Cruz Mountains and flows northeast towards the Pajaro River. The area surrounding the reservoir is characterized by oak woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral.History
Construction of the Uvas Dam, which created the reservoir, began in 1956 and was completed in 1957. The project was undertaken by the Santa Clara Valley Water District to increase the local water supply for agricultural and municipal use in a rapidly growing region, and to provide flood protection for downstream communities along Uvas Creek.Characteristics and Features
- Dam: Uvas Dam is an earthen dam with a height of approximately 130 feet (40 m) and a crest length of 740 feet (230 m).
- Capacity: The reservoir has a storage capacity of about 9,800 acre-feet (12.1 million cubic meters) of water.
- Surface Area: When full, the reservoir covers approximately 290 acres (1.2 km²).
- Water Source: The primary inflow is Uvas Creek, with some contributions from smaller seasonal streams. The reservoir's outflow also feeds Uvas Creek, which eventually joins the Pajaro River.
- Purpose: Its primary functions are water conservation for groundwater recharge and direct water supply, and flood control.
Recreation
Uvas Reservoir is open to the public for various recreational activities, managed by the Santa Clara Valley Water District and the Santa Clara County Parks and Recreation Department.- Boating: Non-motorized boats, boats with electric motors, and boats with gas motors up to 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) are permitted. Sailboarding and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular.
- Fishing: The reservoir is regularly stocked with various fish species, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular fishing destination.
- Hiking and Picnicking: Picnic areas with tables and barbecues are available, and walking trails surround portions of the reservoir, offering opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the natural scenery.
- Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitat supports a variety of wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and other local mammals.