Hicks Canyon Retention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Irvine, California, the Hicks Canyon Retention Basin serves as a vital infrastructure for debris control and flood risk reduction along the Hicks Can Wash.


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Summary

Built in 1997, this earth dam stands at 60 feet in height with a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, covering an area of 8 acres and draining a watershed of 0.83 square miles. The basin's primary purpose is to mitigate the impact of debris and reduce the risk of flooding in the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government, the retention basin undergoes regular inspections and maintenance, with its condition assessed as satisfactory and a low hazard potential. This structure plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community from potential water-related disasters, with state regulations and oversight ensuring its operational integrity. With State jurisdiction and permitting in place, the Hicks Canyon Retention Basin stands as a testament to proactive water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As a key component of the flood control system in Orange County, the Hicks Canyon Retention Basin not only protects the city of Irvine but also contributes to overall water resource sustainability in the area. With a strategic location and efficient design, this infrastructure exemplifies the intersection of engineering innovation and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of proactive measures in adapting to the challenges of a changing climate. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Hicks Canyon Retention Basin serves as a tangible example of effective infrastructure investment and management in the face of increasing environmental risks.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

806

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

Hicks Can Wash

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

50.5

Drainage Area

0.83

Nid Storage

110

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

60
       
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.