Elephant Butte
May 7, 2024
Elephant Butte, located in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, is a federal dam on the Rio Grande River managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Built in 1915, this concrete dam stands at a height of 301 feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation. With a storage capacity of over 2.5 million acre-feet, Elephant Butte plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
The dam's strategic location and design make it a vital infrastructure for the surrounding area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 47,500 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 42,750 acres. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Elephant Butte has undergone structural modifications in 1985 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's risk assessment ranks it as very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of downstream communities.
Elephant Butte is not only a key player in flood control and water storage but also a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. Its impressive size and historical significance make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the engineering marvel that is Elephant Butte.
| Years_Modified | 1985 - Structural |
| Year_Completed | 1915 |
| Dam_Height | 301 |
| River_Or_Stream | RIO GRANDE RIVER |
| Dam_Length | 1674 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Concrete |
| Surface_Area | 42750 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 210 |
| Drainage_Area | 28900 |
| Nid_Storage | 2593255 |
| Structural_Height | 301 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Foundations | Rock |
| Nid_Height | 301 |
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