Santa Fe Reservoir Report
Nearby: City West Cataract Creek
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Santa Fe, also known as Railroad Dam, is a historic masonry dam located in Williams, Arizona, along Cataract Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1892, this dam serves primarily for recreation purposes and water supply, with a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 215 acre-feet. The dam stands at 42 feet in height and stretches 454 feet in length, with a spillway width of 63 feet for uncontrolled discharge.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Santa Fe poses a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water resources for the community while offering recreational opportunities for enthusiasts. With a moderate risk rating and regular inspections, Santa Fe remains a vital piece of infrastructure in Coconino County, Arizona, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the historic Santa Fe Dam, they can appreciate its multi-arch masonry design and rock foundation that have stood the test of time. With a surface area of 14 acres and a drainage area of 4.7 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along Cataract Creek and ensuring sustainable water supply for the surrounding area. With its rich history, recreational value, and vital water supply function, Santa Fe stands as a testament to the importance of prudent water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1892 |
Dam Length |
454 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
CATARACT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
4.7 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Kaibab Lake Campground and Group Areas
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Kaibab Lake
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Kaibab Lake Campground
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Dogtown Lake
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Dogtown Lake Campground
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Santa Fe
Parsons Spring To Confluence Of The Verde River