Boynton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boynton Lake Dam, also known as Scout Dam, is a Federal-owned structure located in Apache County, Arizona.


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Summary

Built in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam on Mineral Creek stands at a height of 27 feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock containment, and recreation. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 10 square miles.

With a controlled spillway width of 125 feet, Boynton Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in a not rated condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam has not been modified since its completion and is inspected every 10 years to ensure its safety. The risk assessment for the dam is very high, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and management measures to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Situated in a picturesque location near Concho, Arizona, Boynton Lake Dam offers a serene setting for recreation enthusiasts and water resource management professionals alike. As part of the Forest Service's infrastructure, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage for various purposes while also contributing to the conservation of fish and wildlife in the area. Its strategic design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service make it a valuable asset for the community, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in this region.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

MINERAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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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.