Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No.
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Summary
4, also known as Ralph Arroyo #4, is a crucial water resource infrastructure located in Rincon, Doña Ana, New Mexico. This Earth-type dam, completed in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Ralph Arroyo stream. With a height of 37 feet and a length of 800 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 318 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 31 acres.
Despite its vital role in flood control, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as poor, with a high hazard potential. This highlights the urgent need for maintenance and potential rehabilitation to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the structure. The dam's inspection frequency is set at every 3 years, with the last inspection conducted in February 2017. While the risk assessment categorizes the dam's risk level as moderate, there is room for improvement in risk management measures and emergency action preparedness.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure like Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 4 in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. Monitoring and investing in the maintenance of such structures are crucial to ensure their continued functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. Collaboration between local government agencies, the Office of the State Engineer, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service is essential to address the dam's current poor condition and uphold its vital role in protecting the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
RALPH ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
2.5 |
Nid Storage |
318 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 4