Bee Canyon Retention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in El Toro, California, the Bee Canyon Retention Basin serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the Bee Canyon Wash.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 62 feet and has a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet. With a surface area of 14 acres and a drainage area of 1.29 square miles, this retention basin plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government, the Bee Canyon Retention Basin is regulated by the California Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, this retention basin effectively mitigates flood risks in the region. Despite its impressive design and functionality, the basin has not been modified since its completion, highlighting its reliability and effectiveness in managing water resources in Orange County.

Supported by a network of emergency contacts and guidelines for risk management, the Bee Canyon Retention Basin stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in California. With its strategic location and design, this retention basin serves as a critical infrastructure for safeguarding communities from potential flood hazards, making it an essential component of the region's water resource and climate adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

Bee Canyon Wash

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

50.5

Drainage Area

1.29

Nid Storage

243

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

62
       
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.