Parker

COLORADO RIVER· La Paz, Arizona· Built 1938· Concrete· 320 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Irrigation Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Parker is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 320 ft (taller than 98% in AZ)
Dam Length856 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage180.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage180.0K acre-ft
Surface Area20,390 acres
Drainage Area9,500 sq mi
Max Discharge314,000 cfs
Year Completed1938 (88 years old)
NID IDAZ10312

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 19, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

RECLAMATION

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Parker?

Parker 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 Parker?

Parker is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Parker built?

Parker was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Parker?

Parker serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Irrigation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Parker?

Parker has a dam height of 320 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 Parker last inspected?

Parker was last inspected on May 19, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.