Alto Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Alto Lake Dam, located in Ruidoso, New Mexico, is a crucial water supply structure owned by the local government.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 51 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 449 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 299.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 15.4 acres.

Despite its important role in water management, Alto Lake Dam has been assessed to have a high hazard potential and poor condition, as of the last inspection in April 2019. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 20 feet, and it is situated on Eagle Creek. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparedness and risk management measures are currently unclear, raising concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential hazards.

Given its moderate risk assessment and the need for improved maintenance and emergency preparedness, Alto Lake Dam presents a critical area for further evaluation and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and reliability of water resources in the region. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find this dam's current condition and risk factors particularly intriguing for ongoing monitoring and potential mitigation efforts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

362

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

EAGLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.4

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

449

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

54
       
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.