The Round Canyon Retarding Basin, located in El Toro, California, serves as a critical flood risk reduction infrastructure along the Round Can Wash. Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 98 feet and has a storage capacity of 286 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the basin plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flood events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Water Resources (DWR), the Round Canyon Retarding Basin is equipped with state-of-the-art inspection and enforcement protocols to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction and secondary benefits for water supply, this infrastructure underscores the importance of proactive water resource management in mitigating climate-related challenges in Orange County, California.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Round Canyon Retarding Basin offers a compelling case study in sustainable infrastructure development and management. With its strategic location, design, and operational protocols, this flood risk reduction facility stands as a testament to effective collaboration between local authorities, regulatory agencies, and the community to enhance resilience against climate-induced hazards in the region.