Roper Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Roper Lake, located in Graham, Arizona, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources.


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Summary

This recreational site, completed in 1961, serves multiple purposes including recreation and water supply. The earth dam, with a height of 17 feet and a length of 2964 feet, creates a storage capacity of 313 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 34 acres.

The dam on Roper Lake poses a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition. A spillway width of 40 feet allows for controlled release of water in case of emergencies, with a maximum discharge capacity of 100 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Roper Lake provides a vital source of water supply in the region and offers recreational opportunities for visitors. The site's location in the Stockton Wash - OS area, along with its proximity to the city of Safford, makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore and appreciate the beauty and functionality of this reservoir.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

2964

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

STOCKTON WASH - OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

313

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.
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