Maxwell Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Maxwell Dam No. 11 Stubblefield Dam
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Maxwell Dam No.
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Summary
2, also known as Laguna Madre, is a private dam located in Maxwell, New Mexico. Built in 1955 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the Vermejo River. With a height of 12 feet and a length of 10,730 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 2,883 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2,353 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 418 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Maxwell Dam No. 2 is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a moderate risk assessment of 3. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement regulations. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 300 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 2,245 cubic feet per second in case of overflow.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Maxwell Dam No. 2 can appreciate its historical significance in irrigation infrastructure in New Mexico. The dam's location in the Colfax County offers a glimpse into the engineering marvels of the past and highlights the importance of maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure to ensure water security in the face of changing climate conditions. With its association with the Vermejo River and its critical role in supporting agricultural activities, Maxwell Dam No. 2 stands as a testament to the intricate balance between water resource management and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
10730 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
VERMEJO RIVER - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
418 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
2883 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
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. 2