Horseshoe Cienega Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Cienega, located in Apache County, Arizona, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam was completed in 1964 along Horseshoe Creek, serving as a vital water resource for the area. With a structural height of 40 feet and a length of 900 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet, making it a crucial component of water management in the region.

Despite its importance, Horseshoe Cienega poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being listed as "Not Available." The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in 2011, indicating a need for updated preparedness measures. A risk assessment categorizes the structure as having a very high risk level, warranting attention to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for continued water resource management.

Given its significance in water storage and regulation, efforts must be made to assess and address any potential risks associated with Horseshoe Cienega. With its location along Horseshoe Creek and the high hazard potential, proactive measures and regular inspections are imperative to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. As a key Federal-owned structure in the region, the Bureau of Indian Affairs must prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of Horseshoe Cienega to ensure the continued availability of water resources and mitigate any potential risks.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

900

River Or Stream

HORSESHOE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1300

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.