Munds Park

1902 Hattie Munds submitted her Notice of Water Location and at that time had already erected a dam. Per ARS of 1901 Chapter 1, Title LXXIII. 

"Notice is herby given, that I, the undersigned, Hattie Munds, of lawful age and a citizen of the United States, have located and appropriated and do herby locate and appropriate, ALL the flood and surplus waters, being all the waters, of what is known as the Munds Park wash or canyon, running from the north east into that of certain DAM AND RESERVOIR located on the NORTH WEST quarter of Section 16 in Township 18, North, Range 7, East of Gila and Salt River Meridian in Coconino County, Arizona. 

"Dated and posted on the ground, September 1, 1902

Witness, J.V. Dickinson and E.E. Thurston

Agent, John Loy

In case of abandonment

In many jurisdictions, including Arizona, the abandonment or decommissioning of dams and reservoirs is typically a regulated process. The responsible agencies may require the dam owner or operator to follow specific procedures, which may include notifying relevant authorities and obtaining approval for decommissioning.

Here are some general considerations:

1. Notification and Approval: The dam owner or operator may be required to notify relevant state agencies, such as the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) or other regulatory bodies, about the intention to abandon or decommission a dam. Approval from these agencies may be necessary before taking any action.
2. Environmental Impact Assessment: There could be requirements for an environmental impact assessment or study to evaluate the potential impacts of decommissioning on the surrounding environment, ecosystems, and water resources.
3. Water Rights Consideration: If the dam is associated with water rights, there may be additional considerations and regulatory processes to follow to ensure proper relinquishment or transfer of those rights.
4. Record Keeping: While the term "recorded for abandonment" may not be a standard phrase, keeping proper documentation and records of the decommissioning process, including approvals and environmental assessments, is likely a part of the regulatory requirements.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on abandonment procedures for dams and reservoirs in Arizona, you should consult the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) or other relevant state agencies. They can provide guidance on the specific steps and requirements for decommissioning a dam in compliance with state laws and regulations. Additionally, legal professionals with expertise in water and environmental law in Arizona can offer assistance in navigating the regulatory framework.

In the Case of Erosion 

1. Safety Concerns: If the dam erosion poses a safety risk to downstream communities or infrastructure, immediate action may be necessary to address the situation. Safety concerns often take precedence, and emergency measures may need to be implemented to mitigate any potential hazards.
2. Environmental Impact: The erosion of a dam could result in environmental impacts, affecting water quality, ecosystems, and downstream habitats. Environmental agencies would likely be involved in assessing and addressing these impacts.
3. Regulatory Compliance: The original construction of the dam would have required permits and compliance with state and federal regulations. The erosion of the dam may trigger additional regulatory scrutiny, especially if the erosion leads to changes in water flow, affects water rights, or poses environmental risks.
4. Restoration or Removal: Depending on the extent of the erosion and the condition of the dam, authorities may consider options such as dam restoration, reconstruction, or removal. The decision would be influenced by safety considerations, environmental impacts, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
5. Legal and Liability Issues: There may be legal and liability considerations associated with the erosion of the dam, especially if it resulted in damages to downstream property or infrastructure. Responsible parties might be held accountable for the consequences.

In such situations, it is crucial for relevant authorities, including state environmental agencies, water resource management agencies, and possibly legal authorities, to assess the situation, determine the causes of erosion, and formulate an appropriate response. The specific procedures and actions taken would depend on the unique circumstances of the dam and reservoir in question.

Maintenance

1. Maintenance and Inspections: Dams are typically subject to regular maintenance and inspections to ensure their safety and structural integrity. Dam owners are responsible for adhering to maintenance requirements outlined by regulatory authorities.
2. Regulatory Compliance: The construction and operation of dams are regulated by state and federal authorities. Regulatory compliance involves obtaining permits, adhering to safety standards, and meeting environmental requirements. Compliance with these regulations is ongoing and may be subject to periodic reviews.
3. Changes in Land Use: Dams and reservoirs may be affected by changes in land use or development in the surrounding area. Zoning laws and land-use planning can impact the continued operation of dams.
4. Environmental Considerations: Environmental factors, such as changes in water quality or impacts on ecosystems, may also influence the status of dams. Compliance with environmental regulations is crucial for the ongoing operation of such structures.
5. Safety Concerns: If safety concerns arise due to aging infrastructure or changes in the surrounding environment, regulatory authorities may require modifications, repairs, or, in extreme cases, decommissioning of the dam.

It's important to note that regulations and policies can evolve, and dam owners are typically required to stay in compliance with the latest standards. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on the status of a specific dam or reservoir in Arizona, you should contact the relevant regulatory agencies, such as the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) or other local authorities responsible for dam safety and water management. Consulting with legal professionals specializing in water and environmental law can also provide guidance on compliance and potential changes in regulations.