Horseshoe Reservoir At Horseshoe Dam Reservoir Report

Nearby: Bartlett

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Reservoir is located in central Arizona, formed by the Horseshoe Dam on the Verde River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam was constructed in 1944 for hydroelectric power and irrigation purposes. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 209,000 acre-feet and is primarily fed by snowmelt and runoff from the surrounding mountains. The reservoir provides water for irrigation, recreation, and fish and wildlife habitat. The area surrounding Horseshoe Reservoir is popular for camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. The reservoir is also an important source of water for nearby cities and towns, including Phoenix. The surface flow of the reservoir is primarily provided by the Verde River, while snowpack from the surrounding mountains contributes to the reservoir's water supply. Horseshoe Reservoir is a valuable resource for the region's agricultural and recreational needs.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change None%
Percent of Normal None%
Minimum 45.84 ft
2019-07-16
Maximum 127.28 ft
2010-05-03
Average 73 ft
Dam_Height 202
Hydraulic_Height 175
Drainage_Area 5618
Years_Modified 1996 - Hydraulic, 1996 - Seismic, 1996 - Structural
Year_Completed 1945
Nid_Storage 214372
Structural_Height 202
River_Or_Stream VERDE RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 3656
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 1994
Primary_Dam_Type Rockfill
Nid_Height 202
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Gage Height, Ft Levels

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.