Zuber Draw Site 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Zuber Draw Site 3 Dam, also known as Greenfield Arroyo Flood Retention Structure, is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Chaves, New Mexico.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 3300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet. Situated on the Greenfield Arroyo, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events by controlling the flow of water and reducing the risk of damage to nearby communities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, the Zuber Draw Site 3 Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the residents of Dexter and its surrounding areas.

As one of the key flood risk reduction structures in the region, Zuber Draw Site 3 Dam's significance lies in its ability to protect communities, infrastructure, and natural resources from the devastating impacts of flooding. With its strategic location and well-maintained operational systems, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in New Mexico.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

3300

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

GREENFIELD ARROYO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

252

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

24

Nid Storage

2300

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.