North Heights (No. 11)
Key Takeaway
North Heights (No. 11) is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 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 | 34 ft (taller than 61.6% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 820 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 304 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,750 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1976 (50 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00167 |
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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High Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Heights (No. 11)?
North Heights (No. 11) 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 North Heights (No. 11)?
North Heights (No. 11) is owned by TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Heights (No. 11) built?
North Heights (No. 11) was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 North Heights (No. 11)?
North Heights (No. 11) 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 North Heights (No. 11)?
North Heights (No. 11) has a dam height of 34 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 North Heights (No. 11) last inspected?
North Heights (No. 11) was last inspected on December 29, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.