Slick Rock Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Slick Rock Detention Dam, located in Graham, Arizona, along the Slick Rock Wash, was completed in 1981 by the Bureau of Land Management and serves as a crucial water resource management structure in the region.
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Summary
This gravity dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, providing storage for up to 1418.2 acre-feet of water. The dam plays a significant role in controlling the flow of the Slick Rock Wash and mitigating flood risks in the area, highlighting its importance in water resource management.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Slick Rock Detention Dam is well-maintained and continues to serve its primary purpose effectively. Despite not being regulated by the state or requiring regular inspections, the dam remains a key infrastructure for water management in the region. The dam's design, incorporating buttress and stone core types, showcases the Bureau of Land Management's expertise in dam construction and underscores the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
As a vital component of the water management infrastructure in Arizona, Slick Rock Detention Dam stands as a testament to the collaboration between federal agencies and their commitment to ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources. With a focus on effective operation and maintenance, the dam continues to fulfill its role in flood control and water storage, safeguarding the community and surrounding environment from potential risks. The dam's strategic location and design reflect a forward-thinking approach to water resource management, essential in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
1920 |
River Or Stream |
SLICK ROCK WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
98 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
58.1 |
Nid Storage |
1418.2 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
101cfs |
Bonita Creek Near Morenci
|
4cfs |
Gila River Near Clifton
|
53cfs |
Frye Creek Near Thatcher
|
1cfs |
Gila River At Duncan
|
34cfs |
Eagle Creek Above Pumping Plant
|
28cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hackel Road Dispersed
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Riverview
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Riverview Campground
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Slick Rock Detention Dam
Gila River (Gila Box)