Little Hell's Canyon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mexican Tank Steel Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Hell's Canyon is a state-regulated dam located in Yavapai, Arizona, with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
Completed in 1951, this rockfill dam stands at 30 feet high and spans 500 feet in length, with a capacity to store 1545 acre-feet of water. Situated on the Little Hell Canyon river, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental conservation in the region.
Owned and regulated by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Little Hell's Canyon dam boasts a satisfactory condition assessment, with a high hazard potential due to its location. The dam's spillway, with a width of 29 feet, is uncontrolled, and it has a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards and undergo regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. This reservoir not only provides essential water storage but also contributes to the local ecosystem and wildlife habitat.
With a surface area of 12 acres and a drainage area of 53.7 square miles, Little Hell's Canyon dam serves as a critical water source for the surrounding area. Managed and maintained by state authorities, this dam represents a pivotal piece of infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Yavapai County, Arizona. As a key player in the state's water regulatory system, Little Hell's Canyon stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE HELL CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
12 |
Drainage Area |
53.7 |
Nid Storage |
1545 |
Structural Height |
69.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
70 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Little Hell's Canyon