Rittenhouse
Key Takeaway
Rittenhouse is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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 | 17 ft (taller than 22.8% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 22,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 660 acres |
| Drainage Area | 92 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 18,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00085 |
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 Rittenhouse?
Rittenhouse 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 Rittenhouse?
Rittenhouse 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 Rittenhouse built?
Rittenhouse was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Rittenhouse?
Rittenhouse 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 Rittenhouse?
Rittenhouse has a dam height of 17 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 Rittenhouse last inspected?
Rittenhouse was last inspected on January 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.