Conchas Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: May 6, 2026

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Conchas Dam, also known as Conchas Lake, is a gravity dam located in San Miguel, New Mexico, serving as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the Canadian River/Conchas River.


Summary

Built in 1940 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at a height of 200 feet and has a structural height of 235 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 709,119 acre-feet. While primarily designed for flood risk reduction, it also offers recreational opportunities, covering a surface area of 2,694 acres.

The dam poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas downstream. Although a risk assessment conducted in 2009 categorized the dam breach risk as low, the potential for catastrophic flooding remains a concern, particularly during emergency operations or uncontrolled spillway flow. To mitigate risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements various measures such as routine inspections, maintenance activities, and risk communication strategies. These efforts aim to ensure the safety and integrity of the Conchas Dam project, safeguarding downstream communities and infrastructure along the Canadian River to Ute Dam.

With a focus on managing risk and enhancing safety, the Conchas Dam project continues to play a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from flooding while providing opportunities for recreation. Through ongoing inspections, maintenance, and risk communication efforts, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to ensuring the resilience and effectiveness of the dam, addressing potential hazards and safeguarding the local community against the threat of catastrophic flooding.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

19500

Dam Height

200

River Or Stream

CANADIAN RIVER/CONCHAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2694

Hydraulic Height

195

Drainage Area

7409

Nid Storage

709119

Structural Height

235

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

235
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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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Nearby Reservoirs

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River Runs