Brea Dam - Saddle Dike 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brea Dam - Saddle Dike 1, also known as Brea Reservoir, is a vital structure in Orange County, California, owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1942, this earth dam stands at a height of 87 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along Brea Creek. With a storage capacity of 7420 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, it has a high hazard potential, which necessitates proactive risk management measures. The US Army Corps of Engineers regularly monitors and maintains the dam to ensure its structural integrity and readiness for emergencies. They work closely with local agencies and communities to develop emergency action plans, conduct risk assessments, and update mitigation strategies to address any potential threats. Overall, Brea Dam - Saddle Dike 1 plays a critical role in safeguarding the surrounding area from flood risks, highlighting the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and challenges associated with dam management is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our communities. Brea Dam - Saddle Dike 1 exemplifies the intricate balance between flood risk reduction, recreational use, and environmental protection. By staying informed and engaged in dam safety practices, we can help support the efforts of organizations like the US Army Corps of Engineers in effectively managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks in our region.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

1765

Dam Height

87

River Or Stream

BREA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

22

Nid Storage

7420

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

87
       
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.