Rattlesnake Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rattlesnake Canyon, also known as Rattlesnake Reservoir, is a vital water resource located in Tustin, California.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and water supply. Completed in 1959, the earth dam stands at a height of 79 feet and has a storage capacity of 1480 acre-feet, making it a crucial component of water management in the region.

Managed by the California Department of Water Resources and regulated by the Safety of Dams agency, Rattlesnake Canyon is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a drainage area of 2.02 square miles and a surface area of 60 acres, this reservoir plays a significant role in managing water resources in Orange County. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last evaluation in September 2017.

Rattlesnake Canyon's proximity to Rattlesnake Creek and its strategic location in the Los Angeles District underline its importance in water management and conservation efforts. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated to meet guidelines, ensuring that it can effectively respond to any potential risks or emergencies. As a key element in California's water infrastructure, Rattlesnake Canyon stands as a testament to the state's commitment to sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

980

Dam Height

79

River Or Stream

Rattlesnake Cr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

73

Drainage Area

2.02

Nid Storage

1480

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

79
       
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.