City Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Coconino County, Arizona, near the city of Williams, the City dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational infrastructure.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1902, this earth dam on Cataract Creek serves multiple purposes, including water supply and recreation. With a height of 46.5 feet and a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area while also offering opportunities for outdoor activities.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources and regulated by state agencies, the City dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition following a recent inspection in November 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 62 feet and a maximum discharge of 2350 cubic feet per second, ensuring safe water release during times of high flow. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management and recreational enjoyment in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the City dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, efforts to monitor and maintain the dam are essential to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding community. By embracing a comprehensive approach to risk management and emergency preparedness, the City dam stands as a model for balancing the needs of both water supply and recreation in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

423

Dam Height

46.5

River Or Stream

CATARACT CREEK - TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

46.5

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

47
       
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.