Summary
With a height of 181 feet and a length of 4780 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 4,831,500 acre-feet. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, a recent risk assessment conducted in 2021 identified it as a moderate risk due to potential overtopping issues leading to erosion of the stone facing along the downstream face of the dam.
A failure of the structure could result in catastrophic downstream damages to surrounding communities in Arizona and California, as well as impact populations in Mexico, potentially affecting over 728,000 people and causing over $7 billion in property damages. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented various risk management measures, including close collaboration with state and local emergency managers, conducting emergency exercises, monitoring rainfall forecasts, and engaging with local communities to enhance flood preparedness. Regular inspections, maintenance, and monitoring of the dam are also conducted to ensure its structural integrity and early detection of any potential issues.
Moving forward, the US Army Corps of Engineers plans to recommend further studies to assess and quantify existing risk factors associated with Painted Rock Dam - Saddle Dike 1. By continuously improving risk communication activities, updating the Emergency Action Plan, and coordinating closely with first responders, the aim is to enhance the dam's safety and effectively manage any potential threats to public safety and infrastructure.
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 - Saddle Dike 1