Maxwell Dam No. 13 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Maxwell Dam No. 14 Maxwell Dam No. 12
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Maxwell Dam No.
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Summary
13, located in Maxwell, New Mexico, is a privately-owned structure designed by the Bureau of Reclamation for the primary purpose of irrigation. Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans a length of 8237 feet, with a NID storage capacity of 4951 acre-feet. Situated on the Vermejo River in Colfax County, the dam serves to support agricultural activities in the region by providing water storage and control capabilities.
Despite its low hazard potential, Maxwell Dam No. 13 is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in April 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 300 feet, and its maximum discharge capacity is 6785 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for the structure is moderate, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place as of the latest data update in April 2021. With its critical role in irrigation and water resource management, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of Maxwell Dam No. 13 for the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
8237 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
VERMEJO RIVER - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
336 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
4951 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
Maxwell Dam No. 13