Indio Loco Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Indio Loco Detention Dam, located in Socorro, New Mexico, is a gravity type structure designed primarily for debris control along the Rio Puerco.


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Summary

Built in 1969 by the Bureau of Land Management, this federal-owned dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a length of 635 feet. With a storage capacity of 65.76 acre-feet, this dam serves a crucial role in managing water flow and sediment in the region.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, indicating a need for further evaluation. The last inspection in August 2019 revealed no immediate concerns, but the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently not up to date. The Bureau of Land Management oversees the operations, funding, design, construction, regulatory compliance, and inspections of Indio Loco Detention Dam, highlighting the agency's commitment to maintaining the dam's integrity and functionality for the surrounding community.

As a significant component of water resource management in the area, Indio Loco Detention Dam plays a vital role in protecting downstream areas from debris and sediment flow. With its historical significance dating back over 50 years, this dam continues to contribute to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find this structure an intriguing subject for further study and appreciation for its impact on local hydrology and environmental sustainability.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

635

River Or Stream

RIO PUERCO

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

9.8

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

65.76

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.