White Tanks #3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: White Tanks #4 Buckeye Frs #3
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
White Tanks #3 is a local government-owned earth dam located in Litchfield Park, Arizona, designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1956.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This flood risk reduction structure stands at a height of 25.5 feet and spans 9571 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet. Situated on the Gila River, the dam is regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
With a spillway width of 1000 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 24000 cubic feet per second, White Tanks #3 plays a critical role in managing flood risks in the region. The dam's satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential highlight its importance in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. Despite its age, the structure continues to meet regulatory standards and is equipped with a slide gate outlet for controlled water release.
Overall, White Tanks #3 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in Maricopa County, Arizona, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like this are essential for mitigating the effects of extreme weather events and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. The dam's ongoing maintenance and adherence to regulatory guidelines demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding water resources and enhancing resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
9571 |
Dam Height |
25.5 |
River Or Stream |
GILA RIVER - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
294 |
Hydraulic Height |
25.5 |
Drainage Area |
23.6 |
Nid Storage |
4800 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
White Tanks #3