Lake Alice Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Maloya Dam Lake Dorothy
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Alice Dam, located in Colfax, New Mexico, is a vital water supply structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer.
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Summary
Completed in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a normal storage of 48 acre-feet. It serves the primary purpose of water supply for the residents of the unincorporated area surrounding it.
Despite its historical significance, Lake Alice Dam is currently rated as having poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential. The dam's spillway, with a width of 54 feet, is uncontrolled, raising concerns about its ability to handle high discharge levels. The last inspection in 2016 revealed these shortcomings, prompting the need for regular monitoring and potential rehabilitation efforts to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam in the face of changing climate conditions.
With a drainage area of 29.7 square miles and a surface area of 8.5 acres, Lake Alice Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. As climate change intensifies, the dam's importance in providing reliable water supply and flood control will only grow. It stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water infrastructure and climate resilience, highlighting the need for continued investment and maintenance to safeguard this critical piece of the local water system.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
CHICORICA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
29.7 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Lake Alice Dam