Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No.
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Summary
3, also known as Reed-Thurmond #3, is a key structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1958 for flood risk reduction along the Reed Thurmond Arroyo. This Earth type dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet, providing a vital function in managing water flow in the region. With a storage capacity of 442 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 7800 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a critical role in protecting nearby unincorporated businesses and residents downstream.
Despite its important role, Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 3 is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a high hazard potential due to its outdated infrastructure. The last inspection in January 2017 highlighted the need for urgent improvements to ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness in flood control. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 200 feet wide, presents a significant risk factor that must be addressed to mitigate potential disasters in the future. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a clear need for proactive risk management measures to be implemented to safeguard the surrounding areas.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the conservation and restoration of structures like Hatch Valley Arroyos Dam No. 3 are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance and water security in the region. Collaborative efforts between local government agencies, the Office of the State Engineer, and relevant stakeholders are essential to ensure the dam's long-term functionality and safety. By investing in necessary upgrades and maintenance work, this dam can continue to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction while protecting the local community and environment from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
2900 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
REED THURMOND ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
56.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
3.3 |
Nid Storage |
442 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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. 3