Prado Dam - Housing Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Prado Dam - Housing Dike, also known as the Prado Reservoir, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located on the Santa Ana River in Orange, California.


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Summary

Completed in 1941 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet and has a length of 2,280 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 295,581 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2,233 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and preventing flooding in the region.

Managed and funded by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the Prado Dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits including recreation and water supply. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 1,000 feet and has a hazard potential rated as high. To mitigate risks, the USACE continually monitors the dam's condition, engages with local emergency managers, and updates emergency action plans regularly. Despite its risk management measures, the dam faces challenges during severe weather events that can lead to increased water inflow, necessitating careful management to prevent structural integrity issues.

In conclusion, the Prado Dam - Housing Dike serves as a critical infrastructure for flood protection and water resource management in Riverside County, California. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the dam's role in managing flood risks becomes increasingly important, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

2280

River Or Stream

SANTA ANA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Drainage Area

2233

Nid Storage

295581

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.