New River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The New River, located in Maricopa, Arizona, is a vital water resource for the cities of Glendale and Sun City.


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Summary

Built in 1985 by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, this earth dam stands at a height of 73 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along its 6-mile stretch. With a storage capacity of 102,520 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 29,850 cubic feet per second, the New River plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam's high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment indicate the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its moderate risk rating, the New River remains a key infrastructure for protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events. With a spillway width of 75 feet and uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is equipped to handle excess water during periods of heavy rainfall, further emphasizing its critical role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

As a state-regulated and permitted structure, the New River dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Arizona Department of Water Resources, highlighting the commitment to ensuring its safety and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With a focus on risk management and emergency preparedness, the New River serves as a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions and increasing water-related challenges.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

2327

Dam Height

73

River Or Stream

NEW RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1780

Hydraulic Height

73

Drainage Area

164

Nid Storage

102520

Structural Height

104.8

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

105
       
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.