Cluff Ranch #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Graham, Arizona, Cluff Ranch #3 is a state-regulated irrigation and recreation dam on the Shingle Mill Branch river.


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Summary

Built in 1956, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 29.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 140 acre-feet across a surface area of 14 acres.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition following a recent inspection in December 2017. With a maximum discharge capacity of 800 cubic feet per second and an uncontrolled spillway width of 50 feet, Cluff Ranch #3 plays a critical role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, this dam serves as a key infrastructure for irrigation purposes in the area, highlighting its importance in sustaining agricultural activities and supporting local communities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and ensure the safety and integrity of structures like Cluff Ranch #3 to safeguard both the environment and the people who rely on its functions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

29.5

River Or Stream

SHINGLE MILL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

29.5

Drainage Area

0.56

Nid Storage

157

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.