Hulsey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Hulsey Lake Dam, located in Nutrioso, Arizona, is a Federal-owned structure built in 1950 with the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated on Hulsey Creek, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 201 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 39 acre-feet. Despite its small size, the dam has a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway and proximity to the surrounding community.

With a maximum discharge capacity of 810 cubic feet per second, Hulsey Lake Dam serves as a crucial component for fish and wildlife conservation in the area. The dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2016, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, signaling the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards associated with its operation.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the dynamic relationship between dams and the environment, Hulsey Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its picturesque location and vital role in recreation and wildlife conservation, this dam on Hulsey Creek serves as a focal point for understanding the complex challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

201

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

HULSEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

39

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.