Key federal regulators approve the Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project

June 15, 2026

Valley Water has reached two major regulatory milestones that keep the Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project on schedule to begin construction in January 2027.

In spring 2026, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued an order approving the Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project and the decommissioning of the hydroelectric facility. Valley Water operated the hydroelectric facility at Anderson Dam for about 30 years; however, the facility has not been operational since 2018.

In accordance with the FERC order, Valley Water will rebuild Anderson Dam to meet modern safety standards and implement environmental measures. It also authorizes the surrender of the hydroelectric facility.

The project reached another milestone on June 11, 2026, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued a key water resources permit. Valley Water is working to finalize all needed regulatory approvals and anticipates awarding the construction contract for the Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project this summer.

FERC and the USACE will oversee construction at Anderson Dam to ensure that Valley Water complies with all environmental laws. Once the retrofit project is finished, California’s Division of Safety of Dams will maintain long-term oversight of dam safety. This division will regulate the dam under state law.

Over the past few years, Valley Water has made significant progress on the overall work at Anderson Dam required by FERC to begin seismic retrofit construction. This has included the construction of the Anderson Dam Tunnel Project. The project remains on track for completion later in 2026.

Once the tunnel construction is completed, work will begin on the seismic retrofit project. This work includes rebuilding portions of the dam embankment and spillway, installing new outlet pipes, and completing other major upgrades. When the seismic retrofit is complete, Anderson Reservoir can return to normal operating levels.

These improvements will help ensure that Anderson Reservoir continues to provide a safe and reliable water supply, groundwater recharge, and flood protection for Santa Clara County for decades to come.

Valley Water manages an integrated water resources system that includes the supply of clean, safe water, flood protection and stewardship of streams on behalf of Santa Clara County's 2 million residents. Valley Water effectively manages 10 dams and surface water reservoirs, three water treatment plants, an advanced recycled water purification center, a state-of-the-art water quality laboratory, nearly 280 acres of groundwater recharge ponds and 333 miles of waterways. We provide wholesale water and groundwater management services to local municipalities and private water retailers who deliver drinking water directly to homes and businesses in Santa Clara County.