Sycamore Dam

BEAR CANYON CREEK· Pima, Arizona· Built 1939· Masonry· 47 ft tall
Significant Hazard Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Sycamore Dam is classified as significant hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 47 ft (taller than 78.2% in AZ)
Dam Length60 ft
Dam TypeMasonry
Max Storage30 acre-ft
Normal Storage1 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area13 sq mi
Max Discharge290 cfs
Year Completed1939 (87 years old)
NID IDAZ82410

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 20, 2009
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USDA FS

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sycamore Dam?

Sycamore Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Sycamore Dam?

Sycamore Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sycamore Dam built?

Sycamore Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

How tall is Sycamore Dam?

Sycamore Dam has a dam height of 47 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 Sycamore Dam last inspected?

Sycamore Dam was last inspected on August 20, 2009. 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.