Colter

LITTLE COLORADO RIVER· Apache, Arizona· Built 1908· Earth· 19 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Colter is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 19 ft (taller than 28.3% in AZ)
Dam Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage732 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area100 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Max Discharge3,300 cfs
Year Completed1908 (118 years old)
NID IDAZ00009

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: September 28, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

Ownership

LYMAN WATER CO.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Colter?

Colter is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Colter?

Colter is owned by LYMAN WATER CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Colter built?

Colter was completed in 1908, making it 118 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Colter?

Colter serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Colter?

Colter has a dam height of 19 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Colter last inspected?

Colter was last inspected on September 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.