Avalon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Avalon is a historic Earth dam located on the Pecos River in Carlsbad, New Mexico, completed in 1906 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this federal structure stands 58 feet tall and spans 1025 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 20,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 4,334 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite its age, Avalon underwent structural modifications in 2002 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 970 feet, capable of discharging up to 145,000 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently listed as not available, regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in August 2020. Additionally, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared, albeit with some details pending updates and revisions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Avalon to be a significant piece of infrastructure in the region, contributing to irrigation, water supply, and flood control efforts along the Pecos River. Its historical value, engineering design, and ongoing management by the Bureau of Reclamation offer a compelling case study for understanding the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and environmental stewardship. As a vital component of the water infrastructure in Eddy County, New Mexico, Avalon serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in arid regions.

Years Modified

2002 - Structural

Year Completed

1906

Dam Length

1025

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

PECOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1850

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

22000

Nid Storage

20000

Structural Height

58

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.