San Simon Barrier Structure Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The San Simon Barrier Structure Detention Dam, located in Solomon, Arizona, is a federal-owned gravity dam designed by the Bureau of Land Management to mitigate flood risks along the San Simon River.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this structure stands at a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 31 feet, with a length of 4214 feet and a storage capacity of 1659 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to control water flow and protect surrounding areas from potential inundation.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the San Simon Barrier Structure Detention Dam is considered a vital asset for water resource management in Graham County, Arizona. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 350 feet, capable of handling maximum discharge levels of 22,960 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Overall, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from the impacts of extreme weather events and maintaining the ecological balance of the San Simon River watershed.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

4214

River Or Stream

SAN SIMON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

290

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

2192

Nid Storage

1659

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.