New Waddell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Waddell is a Federal-owned dam in Maricopa, Arizona, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1992, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive 438 feet in height and has a storage capacity of over 1 million acre-feet. Situated on the Agua Fria River in the Los Angeles District, New Waddell not only serves its primary purpose but also contributes to hydroelectric power generation, recreational activities, and water supply for the region.

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, New Waddell has a high hazard potential and is classified as very high risk, emphasizing the critical importance of its maintenance and monitoring. Although its condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a controlled spillway and a surface area of 9957 acres, New Waddell plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the Phoenix area.

As a key infrastructure project in Arizona, New Waddell represents a significant investment in water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location, design features, and multi-purpose functionality make it a valuable asset for the community and a crucial component of the region's water infrastructure. The dam's role in flood control, water supply, and recreational opportunities underscores its importance in ensuring the sustainable development and resilience of the surrounding areas in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource challenges.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

4700

Dam Height

438

River Or Stream

AGUA FRIA

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

9957

Hydraulic Height

298

Drainage Area

1459

Nid Storage

1063163

Structural Height

438

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

438
       
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.