Nambe Falls Reservoir Near Nambe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nambe Falls Reservoir is a man-made lake located near Nambe, New Mexico.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The reservoir was created in 1934 by the construction of a dam on the Nambe River. The hydrology of the reservoir is fed by runoff from the Santa Fe National Forest and snowpack from the nearby Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The area receives an average of 15 inches of precipitation per year. Agriculture in the area is primarily focused on dryland farming and livestock grazing. The reservoir provides recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The surface flow providers include the Nambe Pueblo Watershed and the Rio Grande Basin. The snowpack providers include the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Pecos Wilderness. The Nambe Falls Reservoir is an important source of water for the surrounding communities and supports the local economy.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.0%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 5,489.29 ft
2020-07-20
Maximum 6,827.8 ft
2013-10-11
Average 6,817 ft
Dam_Height 150
Hydraulic_Height 135
Drainage_Area 34
Year_Completed 1975
Nid_Storage 2601
Structural_Height 150
River_Or_Stream RIO NAMBE RIVER
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 59
Hazard_Potential High
Dam_Length 1021
Primary_Dam_Type Concrete
Nid_Height 150
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 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.