Glen Canyon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Glen Canyon, located in Coconino, Arizona, is a federal hydroelectric dam on the Colorado River managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this concrete dam stands at a height of 710 feet and has a storage capacity of 29,875,000 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with additional benefits including irrigation, recreation, and other uses.

With a surface area of 160,784 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 276,000 cubic feet per second, Glen Canyon plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and it is considered to have a very high risk profile. Emergency action plans are in place, but further information on risk management measures is not provided.

Glen Canyon's strategic location and significant capacity make it a key player in the water resource and climate landscape of Arizona. As enthusiasts and stakeholders continue to monitor and assess the dam's operations, its impact on the surrounding environment and communities remains a topic of interest and concern.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1565

Dam Height

710

River Or Stream

COLORADO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

160784

Hydraulic Height

579

Drainage Area

108355

Nid Storage

29875000

Structural Height

710

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

710
       
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.