Starvation Draw Detention Dam #4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 3, 2026
Starvation Draw Detention Dam #4, located in Luna, New Mexico, serves as a vital structure for debris control along the Frying Pan Canyon.
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Summary
Constructed in 1956 by the Bureau of Land Management, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 37 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25 feet. With a storage capacity of 72.8 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.8 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential hazards in the area.
Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness. The hazard potential is classified as low, but the risk assessment suggests a moderate level of risk, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures. With a history of inspections every 5 years, it is essential for stakeholders to address the dam's poor condition and implement necessary improvements to enhance its resilience and longevity in the face of changing climate conditions.
As a federal-owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management, Starvation Draw Detention Dam #4 plays a critical role in water resource management in the region. With its primary purpose of debris control, this dam not only safeguards against potential flooding but also supports ecosystem health and sustainable water use. Moving forward, continued monitoring, maintenance, and potential upgrades will be essential to ensure the long-term functionality and safety of this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
735 |
River Or Stream |
FRYING PAN CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
14.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
72.8 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
37 |
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 #4