White Tanks #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

White Tanks #4 is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Maricopa, Arizona, specifically in the city of Goodyear.


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Summary

Built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a structural height of 22 feet, with a total length of 6839 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Gila River - TR, providing protection to the surrounding areas against potential water hazards.

With a storage capacity of 2250 acre-feet and a surface area of 155 acres, White Tanks #4 plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region. The dam is regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets state inspection, enforcement, and permitting requirements. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the structure is assessed to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk rating of 3.

The dam features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate and an uncontrolled spillway type, reflecting its design for effective flood control. White Tanks #4 is a key component of the local government's flood risk mitigation strategy, safeguarding the community and infrastructure against potential water-related disasters. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this structure stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management and infrastructure resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

6839

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

GILA RIVER - TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

155

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

14.2

Nid Storage

2250

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.