Saddleback Frs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saddleback Flood Retarding Structure (FRS) is a vital infrastructure located in Maricopa, Arizona, designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 30.8 feet and stretches over 27,270 feet, providing flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 7,600 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow from the unnamed washes in the region.

Owned and regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Saddleback FRS is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being assessed as in fair condition, the dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. The associated risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are yet to be fully detailed, calling for continued vigilance and maintenance to uphold public safety and water resource protection in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Saddleback FRS serves as a prime example of sustainable flood risk reduction infrastructure in Arizona. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam exemplifies the importance of effective water management in mitigating natural hazards and safeguarding communities. As discussions on climate change intensify, the role of structures like Saddleback FRS in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring the resilience of water resources and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

27270

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

UNNAMED WASHES

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1250

Drainage Area

22.2

Nid Storage

7600

Structural Height

30.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.