Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Crow Broad Placitas Dam No.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
1, also known as Broad Canyon Dam, is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico. Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 81.3 feet and spans 1434 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 6910 acre-feet. Despite its critical role in protecting the surrounding unincorporated residents along the Rio Grande from flooding, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential.
Managed by the Office of the State Engineer and subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 1 is a significant piece of infrastructure in the region. The dam's spillway, with a width of 520 feet, remains uncontrolled, posing challenges in managing potential overflow events. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource structure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the complexities and risks associated with dams like Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 1 is crucial for effective water management and disaster preparedness efforts. With its historical significance and key role in flood risk reduction, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of investing in the maintenance and resilience of our water infrastructure to safeguard communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1434 |
Dam Height |
81.3 |
River Or Stream |
BROAD CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
69.4 |
Nid Storage |
6910 |
Structural Height |
86.3 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
86 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Scenic Valley
|
||
Leasburg Dam State Park
|
||
Indian Springs Hill
|
||
Valles Canyon
|
Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 1