Sanchez Stabilizing Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salazar #1 Sanchez
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Sanchez Stabilizing, located in Costilla, Colorado, is a privately-owned irrigation dam constructed in 1956 by the USDA NRCS.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves multiple purposes, including fish and wildlife pond management. With a storage capacity of 425 acre-feet and a surface area of 33 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Sanchez Stabilizing is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment being rated as fair. The dam, which spans 800 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 353 cubic feet per second, is regulated and inspected by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. It is vital for stakeholders and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support the maintenance and risk management measures for Sanchez Stabilizing to ensure its continued effectiveness in irrigation and conservation efforts along the Costilla Creek watershed.
With its controlled spillway and location in the Albuquerque District, Sanchez Stabilizing is a significant structure in the region, managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the dam's condition and any updates from regulatory agencies to support sustainable water management practices and mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
COSTILLA CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
425 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Sanchez Stabilizing