Caballo Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Caballo is a federal dam located in Sierra County, New Mexico, along the Rio Grande River.
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Summary
Built in 1937 by the Bureau of Reclamation, it serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and irrigation. With a height of 96 feet and a structural height of 110 feet, Caballo has a storage capacity of 379,210 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 30,000 cubic feet per second.
The dam underwent modifications in 1993 to enhance its structural integrity and in 2002 to improve its hydraulic, mechanical, and seismic capabilities. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, its risk assessment is deemed very high, indicating the importance of ongoing monitoring and management. Caballo's controlled spillway, with a width of 108 feet, helps regulate water flow and mitigate flooding in the region.
With its strategic location and critical role in water resource management, Caballo is a key asset in ensuring water security and mitigating flood risks along the Rio Grande River. As a federal structure owned, funded, and regulated by the Bureau of Reclamation, Caballo stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water resources for multiple beneficial uses while also highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management to safeguard against potential hazards.
Years Modified |
1993 - Structural, 2002 - Hydraulic, 2002 - Mechanical, 2002 - Seismic |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
4558 |
Dam Height |
96 |
River Or Stream |
RIO GRANDE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
14530 |
Hydraulic Height |
78 |
Drainage Area |
1300 |
Nid Storage |
379210 |
Structural Height |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
110 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Caballo
Caballo Reservoir