Aspen (No. 6) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aspen (No.


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Summary

6) is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Maricopa, Arizona, near the Verde River. Built in 1973, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.3 feet, with a structural height of 42 feet and a length of 840 feet. It has a storage capacity of 324 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.26 square miles, providing essential protection to the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Aspen (No. 6) is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its proper functioning and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 250 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of excess water during high flow periods. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 deemed it satisfactory, with a moderate risk rating. With a focus on flood risk reduction, Aspen (No. 6) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community of Fountain Hills from potential water-related disasters.

Overall, Aspen (No. 6) stands as a key piece of infrastructure in Arizona's water resource management framework, contributing to the protection of lives and property from flooding events. With its strategic location near the Verde River and effective design features, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of proactive measures in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Aspen (No. 6) is essential in fostering sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

30.3

River Or Stream

VERDE RIVER - TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.5

Hydraulic Height

30.3

Drainage Area

2.26

Nid Storage

324

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.