Picacho North Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Picacho South Dam Dona Ana Site 2
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, the Picacho North Dam, also known as Apache Dam, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the North Picacho Arroyo.
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Summary
Built in 1954 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this local government-owned earth dam stands at a height of 42 feet and stretches 1610 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 970 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4200 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Despite its important function, the Picacho North Dam currently faces challenges with a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in December 2019. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are also areas of concern, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and resilience of this critical infrastructure. With oversight from the Office of the State Engineer and State Regulatory Agency, efforts to address these issues are essential to mitigate risks and protect the community from potential hazards associated with the dam.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for sustainable management of water infrastructure, the Picacho North Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and risk assessment in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and flooding. By prioritizing repairs and updates to enhance the dam's safety and functionality, stakeholders can work towards ensuring the long-term resilience and reliability of this essential flood risk reduction structure in Doña Ana, New Mexico.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
1610 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH PICACHO ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
58 |
Drainage Area |
7.9 |
Nid Storage |
970 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
53 |
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.
Picacho North Dam