Located in Thatcher, Arizona, Frye Creek Retarding is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along Frye Creek. Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 31.3 feet and spans 6730 feet, with a storage capacity of 3150 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources and has a high hazard potential rating due to its location and function.

With a spillway width of 400 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 14500 cubic feet per second, Frye Creek Retarding plays a crucial role in managing water flow during heavy rainfall events. The dam's satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2017 reflects its ongoing effectiveness in flood risk reduction. Although its primary purpose is flood control, the structure also serves as a testament to the collaboration between local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events in Graham County, Arizona.

Despite its age, Frye Creek Retarding continues to fulfill its role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity. As a key component of the local flood risk reduction infrastructure, this earth dam stands as a reminder of the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. Its presence along Frye Creek serves as a beacon of resilience and preparedness in the challenging landscape of water resource and climate management.