Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No.
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Summary
4, also known as Bishops Cap Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Mesquite, New Mexico. Constructed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a structural height of 40 feet, with a length of 2445 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 603 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 12,270 cfs.
Despite its critical role in flood management, the dam's condition assessment was rated as poor during its last inspection in December 2019, with a high hazard potential. The dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for proper risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 4 for the surrounding community and water resources.
Located on Bishops Cap Arroyo, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the Doña Ana County area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam requires ongoing maintenance and monitoring to address its poor condition assessment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the state of infrastructure like Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 4 to support sustainable water management practices and ensure the safety of communities in the region.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
2445 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
BISHOPS CAP ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
603 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 4