Starvation Draw Detention Dam #5

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Starvation Draw Detention Dam #5, located in Luna County, New Mexico, is a gravity dam primarily designed for debris control on the Starvation Draw River. Built in 1956 by the Bureau of Land Management, this federal-owned structure stands at a structural height of 29 feet and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 101.5 acre-feet. The dam spans 1800 feet in length and covers a surface area of 39.2 acres, serving a drainage area of 3.8 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain safety features like outlet gates and an emergency action plan. However, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities in the event of a potential breach. The last inspection in June 2016 indicated a need for regular monitoring and maintenance to uphold the dam's functionality.

As a significant part of the Bureau of Land Management's infrastructure, Starvation Draw Detention Dam #5 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating debris flow in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental protection, and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climatic conditions.