3 West Reservoir Report
Nearby: Silver Basin 1 4 West
Last Updated: March 31, 2026
3 West is a private earth dam located in Morenci, Arizona, with a height of 307 feet and a storage capacity of 28,860 acre-feet.
Summary
The dam serves the primary purpose of storing tailings from mining operations in the area. Owned privately, it is not regulated by the state and is under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of 3 West is currently not available. The dam has not been inspected recently, and information on emergency action plans, risk assessments, and inundation maps is also lacking. With no outlet gates or spillway type specified, there are concerns about the potential risks associated with the dam, especially given its significant height and storage capacity.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the condition and safety of structures like 3 West to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and the environment. With limited data available, there is a need for increased inspection and assessment to address any potential risks and develop emergency plans in case of a dam failure. Collaborative efforts between private owners, regulatory agencies, and local authorities are essential to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard water resources in the region.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Dam Length |
1 |
Dam Height |
307 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
28860 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
307 |
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