West Cataract Creek

WEST CATARACT CREEK· Coconino, Arizona· Built 1947· Earth· 36 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

West Cataract Creek is classified as significant hazard in Arizona. It was completed in 1947 and is 79 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 36 ft (taller than 64.5% in AZ)
Dam Length580 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage860 acre-ft
Normal Storage415 acre-ft
Surface Area46 acres
Drainage Area6 sq mi
Max Discharge4,920 cfs
Year Completed1947 (79 years old)
NID IDAZ00038

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: Yes
Last Inspection: October 18, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

Ownership

CITY OF WILLIAMS

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Cataract Creek?

West Cataract Creek 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 West Cataract Creek?

West Cataract Creek is owned by CITY OF WILLIAMS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was West Cataract Creek built?

West Cataract Creek was completed in 1947, making it 79 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 West Cataract Creek?

West Cataract Creek serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is West Cataract Creek?

West Cataract Creek has a dam height of 36 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 West Cataract Creek last inspected?

West Cataract Creek was last inspected on October 18, 2018. 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.