Caballo Arroyo Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Caballo Arroyo Dam No.
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Summary
3, also known as South Salem Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico. Completed in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the South Salem Arroyo. Standing at a structural height of 27.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 19 feet, the dam has a hazard potential classified as high and a poor condition assessment as of March 2019.
With a normal storage capacity of 0 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2,210 cubic feet per second, Caballo Arroyo Dam No. 3 plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters in the area. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's last inspection in March 2019 revealed its deteriorating condition and the need for maintenance. The Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico oversees the regulatory aspects of the dam, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caballo Arroyo Dam No. 3 presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of critical infrastructure for flood protection in the region.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
823 |
Dam Height |
21.7 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH SALEM ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
0.88 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Structural Height |
27.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Caballo Arroyo Dam No. 3