Alameda Dam

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Alameda Dam, located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, is a Federal-owned structure designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Alameda Arroyo. The dam, classified as a Gravity type structure with a stone core, stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 38 feet, spanning a length of 750 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 650 acre-feet and a surface area of 104 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Alameda Dam has a low hazard potential but is currently rated as unsatisfactory in condition assessment, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its construction, and its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet allows for the release of excess water when needed. With Xochitl Torres Small (D) as the Congressional Representative for the area, the dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and protecting the community of Sonoma Ranch.

The significance of Alameda Dam extends beyond flood control, as it also plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 8.34 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,586 cubic feet per second, the dam helps regulate water flow and prevent potential downstream flooding. Although its current condition may be deemed unsatisfactory, ongoing inspections and maintenance efforts ensure that the dam continues to fulfill its vital role in safeguarding the surrounding areas from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability.