Mcgaffey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcgaffey Lake Dam, located in McKinley, New Mexico, serves as a vital water resource for the area.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 417 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 216 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 14.5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 110 acre-feet.

Despite its importance, the dam has been assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the state of New Mexico through the Office of the State Engineer, with regular inspections and enforcement to uphold safety standards. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to prevent potential disasters.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Mcgaffey Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study of the intersection between infrastructure, environmental protection, and public safety. With its historical significance and critical role in water management for the region, this dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining and managing our water resources in a sustainable and safe manner.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

417

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

NUTRIA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.5

Drainage Area

4.5

Nid Storage

216

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.