Railroad Tank Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Scholz Dam Whitehorse Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Railroad Tank Dam, located in Coconino, Arizona, is a significant water resource structure with a primary purpose of serving as a fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
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Summary
Built in 1900 by the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway Company, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans a length of 1000 feet. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 165 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Forest Service, Railroad Tank Dam is used for various purposes including flood risk reduction and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement. The dam's spillway, with a width of 10 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, and the structure has a high hazard potential due to its location near Brannigan Park. Despite its age, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, and it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Railroad Tank Dam remains an integral part of the water infrastructure in the region and a key player in water resource management and conservation efforts.
As an essential water resource structure in Arizona, Railroad Tank Dam serves as a vital component in the local ecosystem, providing water for firefighting, livestock, and recreational purposes. With its historical significance and critical role in flood control and wildlife conservation, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is imperative to recognize the value of structures like Railroad Tank Dam in preserving and protecting our precious water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
BRANNIGAN PARK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
40 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oak Creek Near Sedona
|
35cfs |
Verde River Near Clarkdale
|
69cfs |
Oak Creek Near Cornville
|
57cfs |
Verde River Near Paulden
|
19cfs |
Dry Beaver Creek Near Rimrock
|
0cfs |
Wet Beaver Creek Near Rimrock
|
8cfs |
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.
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