Horsethief Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horsethief is a Federal-owned dam located in Black Canyon, Arizona, along the Horsethief Canyon stream.


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Summary

Built in 1934, this masonry dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 205 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a surface area of 5 acres. Its primary purpose is for recreation, serving as a fish and wildlife pond for visitors to enjoy in the scenic Yavapai County.

Managed by the Forest Service, Horsethief Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's condition has not been officially rated, but it undergoes inspections by the Forest Service on a regular basis. With a maximum discharge capacity of 10 cubic feet per second, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not undergone significant modifications since its completion.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Horsethief Dam an intriguing structure, blending historical significance with recreational opportunities. Its location in a picturesque canyon, combined with its role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats, make it a valuable asset within the region. Visitors can explore the dam's unique design and learn about its impact on the local ecosystem, highlighting the intersection of infrastructure and natural resources in the Arizona landscape.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

205

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

HORSETHIEF CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.