Hopewell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hopewell Lake Dam, located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico, was completed in 1953 and stands at a height of 27 feet, with a length of 340 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres. It is situated on Placer Creek and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico.

Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, with a moderate risk rating, the dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 42 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 1815 cubic feet per second. It is also subject to regular state inspections, with the last inspection conducted in November 2015.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hopewell Lake Dam presents an interesting case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its historical significance, recreational value, and regulatory oversight by the state, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

340

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

PLACER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

170

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.