Silver Basin 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: 4 West
Last Updated: March 31, 2026
Silver Basin 1 is a private-owned earth dam located in Morenci, Arizona, with a primary purpose of storing tailings.
Summary
Standing at a height of 225 feet and with a storage capacity of 1400 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Despite its significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Silver Basin 1 is currently not available, raising concerns about its long-term safety and stability.
Managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, Silver Basin 1 has not undergone recent inspections or condition assessments, highlighting the need for proactive risk management measures. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status and flood risk assessments are not up to date. With its location in Graham County and close proximity to the city of Morenci, ensuring the safety and reliability of Silver Basin 1 is essential for protecting the surrounding environment and communities.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and maintenance of Silver Basin 1 is crucial for understanding the potential impacts of climate change and extreme weather events on dam safety. With its significant hazard potential and outdated emergency preparedness measures, there is a pressing need for regular inspections, risk assessments, and the development of a comprehensive emergency action plan to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding area from potential inundation.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Dam Length |
1 |
Dam Height |
225 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
1400 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
225 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
1 West
Bonita Creek