Graveyard Wash Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Graveyard Wash, located in Safford, Arizona, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25.5 feet and has a structural height of 35 feet, with a length of 4721 feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential water overflow.

With a drainage area of 19.3 square miles and a maximum discharge of 9000 cubic feet per second, Graveyard Wash plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood hazards in the region. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition assessment in 2017 was rated as fair. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 300 feet, helps regulate water levels during peak flow periods, ensuring the safety of downstream communities.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Graveyard Wash is subject to regular inspections by the Arizona Department of Water Resources to ensure its continued functionality and safety. With its strategic location and design, this earth dam serves as a critical asset in protecting the environment and communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

4721

Dam Height

25.5

River Or Stream

GRAVEYARD WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

175

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Drainage Area

19.3

Nid Storage

2370

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.