Whitlow Ranch Dam - Saddle Dike 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Whitlow Ranch Dam - Saddle Dike 1, also known as Whitlow Ranch Reservoir, is a federally-owned earth dam located in Queen Valley, Arizona.


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Summary

Completed in 1959 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with secondary purposes including irrigation. Standing at a height of 149 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 64,910 acre-feet and is situated on the Queen Creek, with a drainage area of 143 square miles.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 355 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 147,000 cubic feet per second. With a high hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Emergency action plans are in place, and the dam is managed to address all types of flood risk associated with its operation. The USACE works closely with local emergency managers to ensure public safety and readiness in the event of a dam-related emergency.

In conclusion, Whitlow Ranch Dam - Saddle Dike 1 plays a crucial role in managing flood risk in the region, with a focus on maintaining the structural integrity of the dam and ensuring public safety. The US Army Corps of Engineers continues to monitor and manage the dam's operations, with a commitment to regular maintenance and updates to emergency action plans to mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.

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

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

149
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.