Prado Dam - Treatment Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Prado Dam - Treatment Dike, also known as Prado Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure in Orange, California, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this earth dam on the Santa Ana River serves primarily for flood risk reduction but also supports recreation and water supply purposes. With a structural height of 53 feet and a length of 2280 feet, Prado Dam has a storage capacity of 295,581 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 181,000 cubic feet per second.

As a high-hazard potential dam, Prado Dam is continuously monitored and managed by the USACE to address flood risks associated with the structure. The agency implements risk management measures, including regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency action planning to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. In case of severe weather events or increased water levels, the dam may release water to manage downstream flow or relieve pressure, emphasizing the importance of public awareness and preparedness for potential dam-related emergencies.

Overall, Prado Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding communities from flooding while also supporting various water-related activities. By implementing proactive risk management strategies and engaging with local stakeholders, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the continued functionality and safety of this essential water resource infrastructure.

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

53

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

53
       
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.