Summary
The lake was created in the 1960s as a part of the Abiquiu Dam construction project on the Rio Chama River. The hydrology of the lake relies on runoff from the surrounding mountains and snowmelt from the nearby snowpack. The Rio Chama River feeds the lake, along with several smaller streams. The lake has a surface area of around 5,200 acres and provides water for irrigation, recreation, and wildlife habitat. The agricultural use of the lake includes irrigating crops such as alfalfa, corn, and vegetables. It is a popular recreational spot that attracts visitors from all over the world for activities such as fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. Overall, the Abiquiu Lake is critical for water supply in New Mexico while also serving as a popular tourist destination.
Reservoir Details
| Storage 24hr Change | -0.62% |
| Percent of Normal | 95% |
| Minimum |
2.0 acre-ft
1976-03-26 |
| Maximum |
402,258.0 acre-ft
1987-06-22 |
| Average | 125,729 acre-ft |
Seasonal Comparison
Water Surface Elevation Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Chama Below Abiquiu Dam
|
1400cfs |
Rio Chama Above Abiquiu Reservoir
|
686cfs |
Rio Chama Near Chamita
|
1320cfs |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
14cfs |
Rio Chama Below El Vado Dam
|
707cfs |
Rio Grande At Embudo
|
649cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Riana Campground
|
||
Riana - Abiquiu Reservoir
|
||
Echo Campground
|
||
Echo Amphitheater
|
Abiquiu Dam
Abiquiu Lake
Private Land Boundary Below Canjilon To Nf Boundary