Las Uvas Detention Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Las Uvas Detention Dam #1, located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, serves as a vital structure managed by the Bureau of Land Management to mitigate flood risks along the Coyote Canyon.
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Summary
Built in 1958, this gravity dam stands at a structural height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 177 acre-feet across its 642-foot length. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, but its condition assessment is marked as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction.
With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Las Uvas Detention Dam #1 plays a crucial role in protecting downstream communities from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events. Even though the dam has not undergone significant modifications over the years, its moderate risk assessment (rating of 3) highlights the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to uphold its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and poor condition assessment underline the need for improved maintenance practices and potentially an emergency action plan to address any unforeseen events that may arise.
Despite its age and maintenance challenges, Las Uvas Detention Dam #1 remains a key piece of infrastructure in the region, managed by the Bureau of Land Management to safeguard against flooding and protect surrounding areas from potential water-related hazards. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water resources, the importance of maintaining and upgrading such structures becomes increasingly evident to ensure the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
642 |
River Or Stream |
COYOTE CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
47 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Scenic Valley
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Indian Springs Hill
|
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Valles Canyon
|
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Leasburg Dam State Park
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Las Uvas Detention Dam #1