Secho Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 22, 2026
Located in Hidalgo, New Mexico, the Secho Detention Dam was completed in 1954 by the Bureau of Land Management to reduce flood risks in the area.
Summary
The dam, designed as a Gravity type structure with a Stone core, stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 17 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.97 square miles, the dam helps control the flow of the Railroad Wash stream, with a maximum discharge of 1382 cubic feet per second.
The Secho Detention Dam spans 925 feet in length and covers a surface area of 46 acres. Its uncontrolled spillway, measuring 2 feet in width, contributes to its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood management. While the dam lacks lock structures, its design and maintenance by the Bureau of Land Management highlight a commitment to protecting the surrounding area from potential water-related disasters.
Managed by federal agencies and funded by the Bureau of Land Management, the Secho Detention Dam serves as a vital tool in mitigating flood risks in Duncan, Arizona. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Secho Detention Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the growing threats of extreme weather events. Its strategic location and purposeful design make it a significant asset in the region's water resource management efforts, showcasing the importance of proactive infrastructure development in the face of a changing climate.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
925 |
River Or Stream |
RAILROAD WASH |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
46 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
2.97 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
110cfs |
Gila River At Duncan
|
86cfs |
Gila River Near Redrock
|
105cfs |
Gila River Near Clifton
|
93cfs |
Gila River At Head Of Safford Valley
|
152cfs |
San Francisco River At Clifton
|
83cfs |
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.
Secho Detention Dam
Gila