Walnut Canyon, located in Coconino, Arizona, is a historic masonry dam built in 1881 on Walnut Creek for irrigation purposes. Standing at a height of 41 feet and spanning 320 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 423 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 27 acres. However, recent assessments have deemed its condition as poor, with a high hazard potential, raising concerns about its structural integrity.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, Walnut Canyon is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure compliance with state standards. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation, highlighting its importance in supporting local agricultural activities. With a risk assessment rating of high, there is a pressing need for ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and water resources.

As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the maintenance and resilience of structures like Walnut Canyon will be crucial in ensuring water security and mitigating risks of potential hazards. The presence of high hazard potential underscores the need for proactive measures and investments in infrastructure to adapt to changing environmental conditions and protect the valuable water resources that the dam helps to manage.