Lakeside Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lakeside, also known as Rainbow Lake, is a private water resource located in Navajo County, Arizona.


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Summary

Constructed in 1904 by the USDA NRCS, this rockfill dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional benefits for recreation. The dam stands at a height of 21 feet, with a storage capacity of 2,226 acre-feet and a surface area of 118 acres, drawing water from the Show Low Creek.

Managed under the jurisdiction of the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Lakeside is subject to state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 deemed it satisfactory, with a moderate risk rating. The surrounding area, including the city of Show Low, benefits from the water supply and recreational opportunities provided by Lakeside, making it a vital asset for both the local community and the environment.

Overall, Lakeside is a key feature in the water resource infrastructure of Arizona, showcasing the collaboration between private ownership, government agencies, and conservation efforts. With its historical significance, functional design, and ongoing maintenance, Lakeside remains a valuable resource for irrigation, recreation, and water management in the region.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

SHOW LOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

118

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

2226

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.