Sycamore Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sycamore Dam, also known as Bear Canyon Dam, is a masonry structure located in Tucson, Arizona.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the Forest Service, this dam stands at a height of 47 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam spans 60 feet in length and is designed to control the flow of Bear Canyon Creek, with a spillway width of 28 feet to handle a maximum discharge of 290 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Sycamore Dam underwent structural modifications in 1953 to ensure its continued effectiveness in water management.

The dam's hazard potential is considered significant, with a moderate risk level assigned to it. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted to monitor its safety and functionality. Sycamore Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing irrigation water and flood control for the surrounding areas. Its historical significance and continued operation highlight the importance of maintaining and managing water infrastructure to adapt to changing climate conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and historical significance of Sycamore Dam, as it serves as a testament to the ingenuity of early water management practices in Arizona. With its multi-arch masonry design and rock foundation, the dam showcases a blend of functionality and durability that has stood the test of time. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of structures like Sycamore Dam to meet the evolving needs of the community and preserve the integrity of the local ecosystem.

Years Modified

1953 - Structural

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

BEAR CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

30

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

47
       
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.