Starvation Draw Detention Dam #3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
Starvation Draw Detention Dam #3, located in Luna, New Mexico, is a gravity dam designed for debris control on the Starvation Draw -TR stream.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by the Bureau of Land Management, this dam stands at a structural height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a length of 1106 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a poor condition assessment, requiring attention to ensure its continued effectiveness.
The dam has a storage capacity of 79.9 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 4.5 square miles. Its uncontrolled spillway is 2 feet wide, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1400 cubic feet per second. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks outlet gates, it is crucial for managing debris flow and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding. While the dam's risk assessment is moderate, ongoing maintenance and monitoring are essential to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the dam's functionality in the event of an emergency.
Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Starvation Draw Detention Dam #3 plays a vital role in the region's water resource management efforts. With its historical significance dating back over six decades, this dam remains a key asset for debris control and flood protection in the area, highlighting the importance of continued investment in infrastructure to safeguard against potential climate-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
1106 |
River Or Stream |
STARVATION DRAW -TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
25.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
4.5 |
Nid Storage |
79.9 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Hourly 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.
Starvation Draw Detention Dam #3