Frye Creek Retarding Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Located in Thatcher, Arizona, Frye Creek Retarding is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along Frye Creek.


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Summary

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.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

6730

Dam Height

31.3

River Or Stream

FRYE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

205

Hydraulic Height

31.3

Drainage Area

25.5

Nid Storage

3150

Structural Height

47.6

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

48
       
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.