Sunset

SUNSET WASH· Maricopa, Arizona· Built 1977· Earth· 20 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Sunset is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 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 20 ft (taller than 30.6% in AZ)
Dam Length560 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage169 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Max Discharge4,100 cfs
Year Completed1977 (49 years old)
NID IDAZ00174

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: June 18, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

Ownership

FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT OF MARICOPA COUNTY

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sunset?

Sunset 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 Sunset?

Sunset 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 Sunset built?

Sunset was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Sunset?

Sunset 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 Sunset?

Sunset has a dam height of 20 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 Sunset last inspected?

Sunset was last inspected on June 18, 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.