Mesquite Generating Station Evaporation Ponds Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Maricopa, Arizona, the Mesquite Generating Station Evaporation Ponds are a crucial water resource infrastructure managed by a Public Utility.


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Summary

These evaporation ponds, completed in 2003, have a primary purpose of managing water in an environmentally conscious manner. With a low hazard potential and a high-risk assessment rating, these ponds play a vital role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

The Mesquite Generating Station Evaporation Ponds, situated along the Centennial Wash - OS, have a structural height of 19 feet and a capacity of 1404 acre-feet. Despite their low hazard potential, these Earth-type dams are designed to withstand potential risks and ensure the safe management of water resources in the area. The Arizona Department of Water Resources oversees the state-regulated and permitted operations of these ponds, providing essential inspections and enforcement measures to maintain their integrity.

With a surface area of 120 acres, the Mesquite Generating Station Evaporation Ponds serve as a key component in the water management infrastructure of Maricopa, Arizona. As climate change impacts continue to affect water resources, the proper management of these ponds is essential for ensuring long-term water security and sustainability in the region. As a critical piece of infrastructure, these evaporation ponds contribute to climate resilience efforts and demonstrate the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

2003

Dam Length

10530

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CENTENNIAL WASH - OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

120

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

1404

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
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.