Lower Chase Creek
Key Takeaway
Lower Chase Creek is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1987 and is 39 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 64 ft (taller than 84.7% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 410 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 390 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 14,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1987 (39 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00197 |
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
FREEPORT-MCMORAN COPPER & GOLD MORENCI OPERATIONS
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Chase Creek?
Lower Chase Creek 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 Lower Chase Creek?
Lower Chase Creek is owned by FREEPORT-MCMORAN COPPER & GOLD MORENCI OPERATIONS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Chase Creek built?
Lower Chase Creek was completed in 1987, making it 39 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 Lower Chase Creek?
Lower Chase Creek serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Chase Creek?
Lower Chase Creek has a dam height of 64 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 Lower Chase Creek last inspected?
Lower Chase Creek was last inspected on October 16, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.