Summary
Built in 1970 by CESPA, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction with a storage capacity of 152,600 acre-feet. Standing at 164 feet tall, the earth dam poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type, which could lead to catastrophic downstream flooding in the event of a breach.
A risk assessment conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 2018 determined that while the likelihood of a dam breach is low, the consequences of such an event would be severe, impacting communities along the Rio Grande to Elephant Butte Lake. To manage this risk, USACE implements regular inspections, maintenance activities, and risk communication efforts. Despite the potential for significant flooding, the project has successfully reduced flood risk in the area, but ongoing measures are essential to ensure the safety and resilience of downstream communities.
In conclusion, the Galisteo Dam project plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks along Galisteo Creek and the Rio Grande. While the dam has been effective in reducing flooding, the potential for a catastrophic breach remains a concern. Through comprehensive risk management measures, including regular inspections and maintenance, USACE is working to ensure the safety of downstream communities and minimize the impact of any potential dam failure.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
2820 |
Dam Height |
164 |
River Or Stream |
GALISTEO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
158 |
Drainage Area |
596 |
Nid Storage |
152600 |
Structural Height |
163 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
164 |
Seasonal Comparison
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.
Galisteo Dam