Hesperus Wash (No. 36)
Key Takeaway
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 36 ft (taller than 64.5% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 1,060 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 482 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00074 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
Local Government
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Low Hazard 29 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Hesperus Wash (No. 36)?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) 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 Hesperus Wash (No. 36)?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) is owned by TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hesperus Wash (No. 36) built?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Hesperus Wash (No. 36)?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) 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.
How tall is Hesperus Wash (No. 36)?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) has a dam height of 36 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 Hesperus Wash (No. 36) last inspected?
Hesperus Wash (No. 36) was last inspected on December 8, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.