Searsville Dam and Reservoir was built in 1892 by the for-profit Spring Valley Water Company and acquired by Stanford in 1919. The dam, which is structurally sound, provides a source of non-potable water used on campus for landscape irrigation. A faculty and staff committee that includes Stanford scholars who specialize in engineering, environmental science, history and law is studying alternatives for the future of Searsville Dam.
Frequently asked questions about Searsville Dam and Reservoir
In the News
Searsville Dam:
- Stanford engages consulting firms to help with Searsville study (Jan. 18, 2013)
- Op-Ed: Understanding the issues behind Searsville Dam (Stanford Daily, Jan. 17, 2013)
- Searsville Dam steering committee wrestling with complex issues (March 7, 2012)
- Stanford faculty committee appointed to study Searsville Dam, Reservoir (May 10, 2011)
- Stanford begins comprehensive study of Searsville Dam (April 5, 2011)
- Who knew water would be a historical 'hot issue?' (Oct. 19, 2010)
Habitat Conservation Plan:
- Stanford moving ahead with 50-year conservation plan (Dec. 10, 2012)
- Stanford issues habitat conservation plan (April 19, 2010)
