Dona Ana Site 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dona Ana Site 2 Sand Hill Arroyo Dam
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Dona Ana Site 1, also known as Dona Ana Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico.
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Summary
This earth dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Dona Ana Arroyo. With a height of 37 feet and a length of 1780 feet, the dam was completed in 1956 and has a maximum storage capacity of 660 acre-feet.
Despite its importance in mitigating flood risks in the area, Dona Ana Site 1 has been rated as having a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2020. The risk assessment for the structure is moderate, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and efficacy of the dam in protecting the surrounding communities.
In the event of emergencies, there is no detailed Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared for Dona Ana Site 1, raising concerns about the effectiveness of response protocols. With Xochitl Torres Small (D) as the congressional representative for the area, there is an opportunity for increased support and resources to address the dam's maintenance and safety issues. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and advocate for the proper management and upkeep of vital infrastructure like Dona Ana Site 1 to safeguard against potential disasters and protect the local ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
1780 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
DONA ANA ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
660 |
Structural Height |
40.9 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Dona Ana Site 1