Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Located in Mesquite, New Mexico, Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No.
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Summary
3, also known as Mossman Arroyo Dam, stands as a crucial flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government. Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam spans 1,925 feet in length and reaches a height of 44 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 925 acre-feet. Situated on Mossman Arroyo, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events, with a spillway width of 380 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 8,200 cubic feet per second.
Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment as of December 2019, Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 3 remains under state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Office of the State Engineer. The dam is designed to mitigate flood risks and safeguard the community, highlighting its critical importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its earth core and stone foundation, this dam exemplifies the collaboration between federal and local agencies in ensuring the safety and security of residents in Doña Ana County.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of climate change on water infrastructure, Apache Brazito Mesquite Dam No. 3 stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to manage flood risks and protect communities in New Mexico. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, this dam serves as a key component in the region's risk management strategy, emphasizing the need for continual maintenance and updates to ensure its effectiveness in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1925 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
MOSSMAN ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
44 |
Drainage Area |
8 |
Nid Storage |
925 |
Structural Height |
51 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
51 |
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. 3