Fool Hollow Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fool Hollow, located in Navajo County, Arizona, is a state-regulated recreational reservoir built in 1956 for the primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities.


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Summary

The dam, a Rockfill type standing at 60 feet tall and 500 feet long, holds a maximum storage capacity of 5617 acre-feet of water from the Show Low Creek. With a surface area of 152 acres and a drainage area of 102 square miles, Fool Hollow offers a tranquil escape for water enthusiasts and climate lovers alike.

Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, Fool Hollow continues to attract visitors with its scenic beauty and recreational offerings. The reservoir's maximum discharge capacity is 15,300 cubic feet per second, and its spillway, although uncontrolled, is 100 feet wide. The reservoir's state-regulated status ensures that it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for outdoor recreation.

With its moderate risk assessment and a history of inspections dating back to 2018, Fool Hollow remains a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a recreational escape in the heart of Arizona. The reservoir's location in the picturesque city of Taylor, along with its ample storage capacity and surface area, make it an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while also appreciating the importance of water resource management and climate conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

SHOW LOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

152

Hydraulic Height

60

Drainage Area

102

Nid Storage

5617

Structural Height

78

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

78
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.