New River
Key Takeaway
New River is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 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 | 73 ft (taller than 86.6% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 2,327 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 102.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,780 acres |
| Drainage Area | 164 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 29,850 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1985 (41 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00202 |
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
FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT OF MARICOPA COUNTY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New River?
New River 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 New River?
New River is owned by FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT OF MARICOPA COUNTY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New River built?
New River was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 New River?
New River 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 New River?
New River has a dam height of 73 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 New River last inspected?
New River was last inspected on March 2, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.