Olga Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Olga Detention Dam, located in Solomon, Arizona, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the San Simon River.
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Summary
Built in 1940 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity-type dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a length of 1300 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 151 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 90.81 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 23.37 acres and serves a drainage area of 2.02 square miles.
Despite its important function, Olga Detention Dam is rated with a low hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection took place in 2007, indicating a need for regular maintenance and upkeep. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures require attention. With a moderate risk rating, it is essential for stakeholders to ensure that the dam's safety and functionality are maintained to protect the surrounding community and environment from potential flood events.
As a federally owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management, Olga Detention Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts in water resource management. With its history dating back over eight decades, the dam continues to serve as a vital asset in safeguarding the area against flooding while highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term effectiveness.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
River Or Stream |
SAN SIMON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
23.37 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
2.02 |
Nid Storage |
151 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River At Duncan
|
29cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
59cfs |
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
74cfs |
Frye Creek Near Thatcher
|
1cfs |
Gila River Near Clifton
|
45cfs |
Bonita Creek Near Morenci
|
3cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Olga Detention Dam