Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 2a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Crow Broad Placitas Dam No.
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Summary
2a, also known as Crow Canyon Dam, is a critical structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1971. This earth dam stands at a height of 62 feet and has a structural height of 78.5 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the Crow Arroyo. With a storage capacity of 14,600 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding.
Despite its importance, Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 2a is currently classified as having a high hazard potential and poor condition, as assessed in January 2017. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are areas of concern that require attention to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the event of a flood or structural failure. Given its critical role in flood risk reduction, ongoing inspections, maintenance, and updates to the emergency action plan are essential to enhance the dam's resilience and effectiveness in safeguarding the local area.
With Xochitl Torres Small representing the area in Congress, stakeholders and officials must work together to address the dam's maintenance needs and ensure that it continues to fulfill its primary purpose of mitigating flood risks. The collaboration between local government, the Office of the State Engineer, and other regulatory agencies is crucial for implementing necessary improvements, conducting regular inspections, and updating emergency response plans. By prioritizing the safety and security of the dam and the communities it protects, Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 2a can continue to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in New Mexico.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
5039 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
CROW ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
679 |
Drainage Area |
120 |
Nid Storage |
14600 |
Structural Height |
78.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
79 |
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.
Crow Broad Placitas Dam No. 2a