El Casco Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

El Casco is a historic earth dam located in Riverside, California, specifically in the city of Redlands along the San Timoteo Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1879, it serves primarily as a water supply reservoir for irrigation purposes. With a height of 19 feet and a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet, the dam is operated and regulated by the California Department of Water Resources, Safety of Dams division, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its age, El Casco is in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential, as determined by regular inspections. The dam boasts a robust structure, standing at a length of 1200 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet. Managed by private owners, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing essential water supply for agricultural activities and contributing to the overall ecological balance of the area.

As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, El Casco represents a significant historical and functional asset. With its long-standing presence and continued operational relevance, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water resource challenges. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find El Casco to be a fascinating example of how past engineering feats continue to play a vital role in shaping the water landscape of California.

Year Completed

1879

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

San Timoteo Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

143

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.