Sunrise Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunrise is a Federal-owned dam located in Apache, Arizona, along Snake Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1967 by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Sunrise serves primarily for recreational purposes. Standing at a structural height of 50 feet and a length of 1300 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 15,600 acre-feet. It is classified as a high hazard potential structure with a very high risk assessment rating.

Despite its critical importance for water resource management and climate resilience in the region, Sunrise does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation. The dam does not have state permitting, inspection, or enforcement requirements, as it is solely managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. However, with a lack of available data on its condition assessment, emergency action plan, and risk management measures, there are concerns about the dam's maintenance and safety protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunrise represents an intriguing case study of a federally-owned dam with significant recreational value but limited oversight and transparency. Its location in a high-risk area makes it crucial to ensure proper maintenance and emergency preparedness measures are in place to safeguard the surrounding communities and ecosystems. As discussions around water infrastructure funding and management continue, understanding the complexities of structures like Sunrise can provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resources, climate adaptation, and public safety.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

1300

River Or Stream

SNAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

15600

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

50
       
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.