Whitlow Ranch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Whitlow Ranch Dam, also known as Whitlow Ranch Reservoir, is a federally-owned structure located in Queen Valley, Arizona, along Queen Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1959 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 149 feet and has a storage capacity of 64,910 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with irrigation as a secondary function.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway has a width of 355 feet, and it has a high hazard potential due to its location and the amount of water it can hold. The USACE actively manages the dam's flood risks by monitoring its condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to ensure preparedness. While dams like Whitlow Ranch Dam cannot eliminate all flood risks, they play a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events.

USACE's risk management measures include regular inspections, updates to the emergency action plan, and collaboration with local authorities on emergency preparedness. By working to address various flood risks associated with the dam, USACE aims to ensure the structural integrity of Whitlow Ranch Dam and minimize the impact of severe weather events on surrounding areas.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

837

Dam Height

149

River Or Stream

QUEEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

144

Drainage Area

143

Nid Storage

64910

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

149
       
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.