Red Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Trout Lake Asaayi
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Red Lake, located in McKinley County, New Mexico, is a federal-owned reservoir with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this earth dam structure was completed in 1895 and has a structural height of 30 feet and a length of 2600 feet. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 11,340 acre-feet and is situated along Black Creek in Ft. Defiance. Red Lake is a key resource for irrigation and recreation in the region, serving as a vital water source for the surrounding area.
Despite its importance, Red Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment, which is currently not available. The reservoir has a very high risk rating and is in need of regular inspections, with the last recorded inspection dating back to March 2012. While the emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and advocate for the upkeep and safety of Red Lake to ensure its continued functionality and sustainability for future generations.
Given its historical significance and critical role in irrigation, Red Lake serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage with federal agencies and local stakeholders in safeguarding its infrastructure and water supply. As an essential reservoir in the region, Red Lake presents opportunities for collaboration and advocacy to address its high hazard potential and risk assessment. By staying informed and involved in monitoring the reservoir's condition and emergency preparedness, enthusiasts can contribute to the long-term resilience and preservation of this valuable water resource against the backdrop of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1895 |
Dam Length |
2600 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
11340 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Red Lake