Walnut Canyon
Key Takeaway
Walnut Canyon is classified as high hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1881 and is 145 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 41 ft (taller than 70.4% in AZ) |
| Dam Length | 320 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 423 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 126 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1881 (145 years old) |
| NID ID | AZ00218 |
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
WARREN AND JOAN SMITH
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Walnut Canyon?
Walnut Canyon 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 Walnut Canyon?
Walnut Canyon is owned by WARREN AND JOAN SMITH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Walnut Canyon built?
Walnut Canyon was completed in 1881, making it 145 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 Walnut Canyon?
Walnut Canyon serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Walnut Canyon?
Walnut Canyon has a dam height of 41 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 Walnut Canyon last inspected?
Walnut Canyon was last inspected on March 22, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.