With a height of 60 feet and a length of 420 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,900 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 78 acres. It is situated on the West Fork of Black Canyon Creek, with the nearest city being Heber & Overgaard.
Despite its scenic beauty and recreational potential, Black Canyon Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in October 2020 revealed the need for improvements to ensure its safety and longevity. The Arizona Department of Water Resources is the state regulatory agency responsible for overseeing the dam's operation, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Black Canyon can appreciate its role in providing habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as opportunities for recreational activities. However, there is a pressing need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the dam and surrounding areas. The dam's moderate risk assessment highlights the importance of addressing its structural deficiencies and implementing emergency preparedness protocols to mitigate potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK, BLACK CANYON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
78 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
5.85 |
Nid Storage |
1900 |
Structural Height |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
72 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Gentry Campground
|
||
Gentry
|
||
Black Canyon Rim
|
||
Black Canyon Rim Campground
|
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Upper Canyon Creek Campground
|
||
Upper Canyon Creek
|