Railroad Tank Dam
Key Takeaway
Railroad Tank Dam is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 37 ft (taller than 66.4% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 44 acres |
| Drainage Area | 40 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 550 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ83000 |
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
USDA FS
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Railroad Tank Dam?
Railroad Tank Dam 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 Railroad Tank Dam?
Railroad Tank Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Railroad Tank Dam built?
Railroad Tank Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Railroad Tank Dam?
Railroad Tank Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Railroad Tank Dam?
Railroad Tank Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Railroad Tank Dam last inspected?
Railroad Tank Dam was last inspected on September 10, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.