River Reservoir #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

River Reservoir #3, located in Apache, Arizona, along the Little Colorado River, was completed in 1896 for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Managed by a private entity, this rockfill dam stands at 58 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 3195 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2146 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 164 acres and has a maximum discharge rate of 24,000 cubic feet per second.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 300 feet, is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in October 2017. The Arizona Department of Water Resources regulates River Reservoir #3, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With its historical significance and vital role in irrigation, this reservoir serves as a crucial water resource in the region.

River Reservoir #3's location in the beautiful South Fork area, its association with the USDA NRCS as the designer, and its strategic position along the Little Colorado River make it a noteworthy destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its efficient storage capacity, moderate risk assessment rating, and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Arizona Department of Water Resources highlight its importance in the region's water management infrastructure. Whether for irrigation, recreation, or ecological purposes, River Reservoir #3 remains a key player in sustaining water resources in Apache County, Arizona.

Year Completed

1896

Dam Length

1212

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

LITTLE COLORADO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

164

Drainage Area

34.4

Nid Storage

3195

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

58
       
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.