Creighton Detention Dam

GOLD GULCH· Cochise, Arizona· Built 1956· Earth·
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction State Government

Key Takeaway

Creighton Detention Dam is classified as significant hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage780 acre-ft
Normal Storage3.0K acre-ft
Max Discharge15,400 cfs
Year Completed1956 (70 years old)
NID IDAZ20008

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 7, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

Ownership

ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Creighton Detention Dam?

Creighton Detention Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Creighton Detention Dam?

Creighton Detention Dam is owned by ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Creighton Detention Dam built?

Creighton Detention Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Creighton Detention Dam?

Creighton Detention Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Creighton Detention Dam last inspected?

Creighton Detention Dam was last inspected on November 7, 2019. 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.