Cuchillo-Negro Dam

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Cuchillo-Negro Dam, located in Sierra County, New Mexico, is a roller-compacted concrete structure designed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily reduce the risk of floods along the Cichillo-Negro Creek. Completed in 1991, this impressive dam stands at a height of 123 feet with a hydraulic height of 105 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 20,500 acre-feet. With a high hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2019, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 800 feet and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. The structure is inspected every three years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in flood risk reduction. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the Cuchillo-Negro Dam has been instrumental in protecting the surrounding rural businesses and communities from potential flooding events, showcasing the importance of efficient water resource management and infrastructure development in the face of climate challenges.

As a local government-owned facility, the Cuchillo-Negro Dam serves as a key example of collaborative efforts between state and federal agencies to safeguard water resources and enhance climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. With its strategic location and impressive specifications, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment to sustainable water management practices and the vital role of infrastructure in addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources.