Foote Wash Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Foote Wash, located in Graham County, Arizona, is a vital flood risk reduction structure designed and constructed by the USDA NRCS in 1977.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 47.3 feet, with a structural height of 67 feet and a length of 1310 feet, providing a crucial buffer against potential flooding in the area. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2018, Foote Wash plays a significant role in protecting the surrounding Lone Star community and its residents from the unpredictable forces of nature.

Managed and regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Foote Wash is a key contributor to the water resource management efforts in the region. With a drainage area of 10.2 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 21,970 cubic feet per second, this structure has a storage capacity of 4,953 acre-feet. Its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 400 feet ensures effective water release during times of excess flow, further enhancing its flood risk reduction capabilities. In the event of an emergency, Foote Wash is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to guide response efforts and protect the surrounding community.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in the area, Foote Wash represents the collaboration between local government and state agencies to safeguard against potential water-related disasters. With a moderate risk assessment level and regular inspections to ensure its continued functionality, this earth dam stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken to mitigate the impact of climate variability on water resources in Arizona. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Foote Wash to be a compelling example of effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in action.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1310

Dam Height

47.3

River Or Stream

FOOTE WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

188

Hydraulic Height

47.3

Drainage Area

10.2

Nid Storage

4953

Structural Height

67

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

67
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.