New Waddell
Key Takeaway
New Waddell is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1992 and is 34 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 | 438 ft (taller than 99.3% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 4,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 1.1M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 811.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9,957 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,459 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1992 (34 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ82929 |
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
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of New Waddell?
New Waddell 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 Waddell?
New Waddell is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was New Waddell built?
New Waddell was completed in 1992, making it 34 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 Waddell?
New Waddell serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is New Waddell?
New Waddell has a dam height of 438 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 Waddell last inspected?
New Waddell was last inspected on August 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.