Steel Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Masonry #2 Jumbo
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Steel Dam, located in Coconino, Arizona, along the Johnson Canyon river, is a historic multi-arch dam completed in 1898 by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway Company.
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Summary
Owned and regulated by the Forest Service, the dam serves as a vital water supply source for the area, with a storage capacity of 97 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 102 cubic feet per second. The dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 320 feet in length, constructed with roller-compacted concrete on a rock foundation.
With a primary purpose of water supply, Steel Dam also supports fish and wildlife ponds, recreation, and flood control in the region. The dam's spillway, 184 feet wide, is uncontrolled, and its hazard potential is rated as low. Despite not being currently rated for condition assessment, the dam undergoes inspections every 10 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Its risk assessment is classified as moderate, with risk management measures in place to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Steel Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into historical dam engineering and its role in sustaining water supplies and ecosystems. The dam's presence along the Johnson Canyon river not only provides essential water storage but also creates recreational opportunities and supports local wildlife habitats. With its unique multi-arch design and roller-compacted concrete construction, Steel Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of early dam builders in Arizona.
Year Completed |
1898 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
JOHNSON CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Multi-Arch |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
46 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Steel Dam