Hatch Valley Arroyo Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Hatch Valley Arroyo Dam No.
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Summary
1, also known as Vevarde Arroyo Dam #1, is a vital structure in Doña Ana, New Mexico, designed by the USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction in the region. Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet, with a hydraulic and structural height of 45 feet, stretching 610 feet in length. Situated on the Velarde Arroyo, the dam has a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 7600 cubic feet per second.
Despite its importance in flood control, Hatch Valley Arroyo Dam No. 1 is currently assessed as having a poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in February 2020 revealed areas of concern, prompting a moderate risk assessment level of 3. With the Office of the State Engineer overseeing its regulation, inspection, and enforcement, steps are being taken to manage the risks associated with this critical infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the ongoing maintenance and potential improvements of this dam to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
610 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
VELARDE ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
420 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
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 Arroyo Dam No. 1