San Simon Fan Drop Structure Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The San Simon Fan Drop Structure Detention Dam in Solomon, Arizona, is a Federal-owned gravity dam constructed in 1953 by the Bureau of Land Management.
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Summary
Designed for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the San Simon River, this dam stands at a structural height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet. With a storage capacity of 3373.2 acre-feet and a surface area of 594 acres, this dam serves as a vital resource for supporting the local ecosystem.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is deemed poor, indicating a need for maintenance and monitoring. The last inspection conducted in 2009 revealed the need for improvements, suggesting a risk management measure to address the moderate risk associated with this structure. With a history of Federal funding and oversight by the Bureau of Land Management, ensuring the safety and functionality of the San Simon Fan Drop Structure Detention Dam remains a priority for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is crucial to recognize the significance of the San Simon Fan Drop Structure Detention Dam in supporting local wildlife and ecosystems. With its historical importance as a Federal-owned structure designed for fish and wildlife conservation, this gravity dam serves a vital role in water storage and management. As efforts continue to address its poor condition assessment and moderate risk level, maintaining the integrity of this dam is essential for safeguarding the surrounding environment and ensuring sustainable water resource practices in the area.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
4300 |
River Or Stream |
SAN SIMON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
594 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
3373.2 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River At Duncan
|
31cfs |
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
80cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
59cfs |
Frye Creek Near Thatcher
|
1cfs |
Gila River Near Clifton
|
49cfs |
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.
San Simon Fan Drop Structure Detention Dam