Summary
Completed in 1960 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 181 feet and has a storage capacity of 4,831,500 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, with a width of 610 feet, is uncontrolled, and the risk assessment conducted in 2021 identified the project as having a moderate risk of failure, primarily due to the potential overtopping of the embankment.
In response to the identified risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented various risk management measures to ensure public safety and minimize the consequences of a potential dam failure. These measures include working closely with state and local emergency managers, conducting emergency exercises, monitoring rainfall forecasts, engaging with local communities to enhance flood preparedness, and regularly inspecting and monitoring the dam's condition. Additionally, plans are in place for further studies to evaluate and quantify existing risks, along with updates to the Emergency Action Plan and coordination with first responders to improve risk communication and response strategies. With a high hazard potential and the potential to impact up to one million people, the Painted Rock Dam remains a critical structure requiring vigilant monitoring and proactive risk management efforts.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
4780 |
Dam Height |
181 |
River Or Stream |
GILA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
172 |
Drainage Area |
50800 |
Nid Storage |
4831500 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
181 |
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.
Painted Rock Dam