Fenton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fenton Lake Dam, located in Sandoval, New Mexico, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation, specifically for fish and wildlife ponds.


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Summary

Built in 1946, this earth dam stands at 41 feet high with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, creating a storage capacity of 721 acre-feet. The dam spans 362 feet in length and has a spillway width of 200 feet, designed as an uncontrolled spillway to manage a maximum discharge of 23,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Office of the State Engineer, Fenton Lake Dam is in fair condition with a high hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in June 2020 revealed its moderate risk level and its emergency action plan was last revised in January 2016. Despite its age, Fenton Lake Dam continues to provide a vital recreational and environmental resource for the surrounding area, contributing to the conservation of the Rio Cebolla river ecosystem and offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy its serene waters and scenic surroundings. With ongoing state regulation and inspection, Fenton Lake Dam remains a key component of water resource management in New Mexico.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

362

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

RIO CEBOLLA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

47

Nid Storage

721

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.