La Cueva Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
La Cueva Dam No.
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Summary
1, located in Buena Vista, New Mexico, is a private irrigation dam that was completed in 1935. With a height of 15 feet and a length of 1725 feet, this earth dam provides vital water storage for the surrounding area, with a total storage capacity of 6510 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Mora River-OS, serving as a crucial resource for agricultural irrigation in the region.
Despite its importance for water management, La Cueva Dam No. 1 is currently in poor condition, as indicated by a 2014 assessment. The dam has a low hazard potential, but its overall risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its long-term stability. The Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico regulates and inspects the dam, emphasizing the importance of adherence to state regulatory standards for its continued operation.
Given its historical significance and essential role in supporting local agriculture, La Cueva Dam No. 1 serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As water scarcity becomes an increasingly pressing issue, the maintenance and upkeep of infrastructure like this dam are crucial for ensuring the continued availability of water for irrigation and other uses in the region. With proper management and investment, La Cueva Dam No. 1 can continue to play a vital role in sustaining the local ecosystem and economy for years to come.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1725 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
MORA RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
405 |
Drainage Area |
3.9 |
Nid Storage |
6510 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mora River At La Cueva
|
13cfs |
Coyote Creek Near Golondrinas
|
6cfs |
Mora River Near Golondrinas
|
18cfs |
Gallinas Creek Near Montezuma
|
10cfs |
Rio Pueblo Nr Penasco
|
27cfs |
Rio Mora Near Terrero
|
11cfs |
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.
La Cueva Dam No. 1