Jemez Canyon Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Jemez Canyon Reservoir is a man-made lake located in the Jemez Mountains of New Mexico.
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Summary
The reservoir was created in 1957 by the construction of a dam across the Jemez River. The hydrology of the area is dominated by monsoon rains and snowpack melt. In particular, the Valles Caldera National Preserve is an important surface flow provider to the reservoir, as well as the surrounding snowpack.
The reservoir is primarily used for irrigation purposes, providing water to the surrounding agricultural communities. Additionally, the reservoir is a popular recreational destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The Jemez Canyon area is rich in cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. Today, the area is managed by the US Forest Service and is an important natural resource for the region.
Reservoir Details
| Storage 24hr Change | None% |
| Percent of Normal | None% |
| Minimum |
0.002 acre-ft
2021-03-16 |
| Maximum |
72,114.0 acre-ft
1987-06-01 |
| Average | 15,438 acre-ft |
| Dam_Height | 149 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 146 |
| Drainage_Area | 1034 |
| Year_Completed | 1953 |
| Nid_Storage | 264700 |
| Structural_Height | 150 |
| River_Or_Stream | JEMEZ RIVER |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Foundations | Soil |
| Surface_Area | 1396 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Outlet_Gates | Vertical Lift - 0 |
| Dam_Length | 870 |
| Nid_Height | 150 |
Seasonal Comparison
Water Surface Elevation Levels
Storage Levels
Pool Elevation Levels
Total Release Levels
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Jemez Canyon Dam
Jemez Canyon Reservoir