Stubblefield Dam, located in Maxwell, New Mexico, is a privately owned structure built by the Bureau of Reclamation in 1955 for the primary purpose of irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a structural height of 59 feet, with a length of 10,119 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 16,074 acre-feet and serves the Vermejo River watershed.
Despite its critical role in irrigation, Stubblefield Dam is currently rated as having poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The dam has a spillway width of 300 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,000 cubic feet per second. It is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico and undergoes state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
The dam poses a moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3, and has an inspection frequency of every 2 years. While the dam's condition is assessed as poor, efforts are being made to manage the risk associated with the structure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainability and resilience of dams in New Mexico may find Stubblefield Dam's history and current status a compelling case study in balancing agricultural needs with safety and regulatory requirements.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
10119 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
VERMEJO RIVER - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
904 |
Drainage Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
16074 |
Structural Height |
59 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
59 |