Scholz Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scholz Dam, located in Clarkdale, Arizona, is a federal-owned structure primarily serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Its main purposes include fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreational activities. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Scholz Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Situated on a tributary of Sycamore Creek, Scholz Dam covers a drainage area of 51 square miles and has a maximum discharge capacity of 3680 cubic feet per second. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 90 feet and is under the ownership and regulation of the Forest Service. Despite being last inspected in 2017 and rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Scholz Dam continues to operate effectively in maintaining the ecological balance and water supply in Coconino County, Arizona.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, Scholz Dam provides essential functions for both wildlife preservation and recreational use. Its strategic location, design, and operational parameters make it a vital asset in the management of water resources and climate adaptations in the region. With a focus on sustainability and risk management, Scholz Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF SYCAMORE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

51

Nid Storage

200

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.