West Well Control Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The West Well Control Dam, located in Solomon, Arizona, is a gravity dam constructed in 1966 by the Bureau of Land Management for the primary purpose of debris control along the San Simon River tributary.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 3 feet, this dam spans 1900 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 1889.3 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 5219.9 cfs.
Managed and funded by the Bureau of Land Management, the West Well Control Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from debris flow and sediment transport. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, this dam undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains an essential asset for water resource management in Cochise County, Arizona.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the strategic location and design of the West Well Control Dam, which serves as a vital component of the region's flood control infrastructure. As a Federal-owned structure, this dam showcases the collaboration between different agencies to mitigate environmental risks and safeguard communities from potential hazards. With its impressive storage capacity and efficient debris control mechanisms, the West Well Control Dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
River Or Stream |
SAN SIMON RIVER TRIBUTARY |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
90.06 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
111 |
Nid Storage |
1889.3 |
Structural Height |
3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River At Duncan
|
31cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
59cfs |
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
80cfs |
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.
West Well Control Dam