El Vado Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

El Vado Lake is a reservoir located in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico.


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Summary

The lake was created in 1935 by the El Vado Dam on the Rio Chama, which is a tributary of the Rio Grande. The hydrology of the lake is primarily sourced by the Rio Chama and its tributaries, as well as snowpack from the surrounding mountains. The lake is used for both agricultural and recreational purposes, including fishing, boating, camping, and hiking. The area surrounding the lake was once inhabited by the Pueblo people, and later became a hub for Spanish colonization. Today, the lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with numerous amenities and facilities available for visitors.

Reservoir Details

Storage 24hr Change 0.57%
Percent of Normal 32%
Minimum 899.0 acre-ft
2023-04-15
Maximum 190,261.0 acre-ft
1986-06-26
Average 79,497 acre-ft
Dam_Height 230
Hydraulic_Height 167
Drainage_Area 690
Year_Completed 1934
Nid_Storage 209330
Hazard_Potential High
Structural_Height 230
River_Or_Stream RIO CHAMA RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 3380
Dam_Length 1326
Primary_Dam_Type Other
Nid_Height 230
       
Seasonal Comparison
Water Surface Elevation Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
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Area Campgrounds