Camp Dyer Diversion Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Dyer Diversion in Maricopa, Arizona, along the Agua Fria River, is a historic structure built in 1926 primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This private gravity dam stands at a height of 45 feet and has a hydraulic height of 81 feet, with a storage capacity of 690 acre-feet. The dam, nestled in the city of Sun City, serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area, supporting both irrigation and recreation activities.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Camp Dyer Diversion is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have moderate risk (level 3) due to its age and the need for further risk management measures. The dam's condition assessment is listed as "not rated," and it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its continued reliability.

With its picturesque location and historical significance, Camp Dyer Diversion offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation. As water enthusiasts and conservationists alike continue to monitor and safeguard this vital infrastructure, the dam remains an essential component of the region's agricultural and recreational landscape.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

AGUA FRIA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

1500

Nid Storage

690

Structural Height

81

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

81
       
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.