Two Rivers Diamond A Dam, also known as Two Rivers Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure located in Chaves, New Mexico. Built in 1963 by CESPA, the dam serves as a flood risk reduction measure along the Rio Hondo and Rocky Arroyo rivers, with a primary purpose of mitigating potential flooding in the region. The dam is an earth-type structure with a height of 98 feet and a storage capacity of 264,400 acre-feet.
Despite its successful history in reducing flooding, the Two Rivers Dam project still poses a high hazard potential due to the risk of uncontrolled spillway flows during emergency operations. A risk assessment conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2016 identified the potential for catastrophic downstream damages to residences and infrastructure in communities such as Roswell, Midway, Dexter, and Hagerman in the event of a dam breach. To manage these risks, the USACE implements various measures such as routine inspections, maintenance activities, and risk communication strategies to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.
In conclusion, while Two Rivers Diamond A Dam has been effective in reducing flood risks in the area, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to prevent potential catastrophic outcomes in the event of a dam breach. The US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to managing and mitigating risks associated with the dam through a comprehensive risk management approach that includes regular inspections, maintenance activities, and communication with the affected communities downstream of the project.
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