Green Canyon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Green Canyon Dam, also known as S.G.J.C.
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Summary
Site 1a, is a vital structure located in Sierra, New Mexico, owned and regulated by the local government. Built in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 104 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Rio Grande - TR. With a storage capacity of 6400 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding.
Despite its important role, Green Canyon Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2015 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the dam's structural integrity and overall safety. As a site regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, efforts are underway to address the dam's condition and mitigate any risks associated with its operation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Green Canyon Dam stands as a symbol of both the challenges and opportunities in managing water infrastructure. With a moderate risk assessment and a history of flood risk reduction, the dam represents a critical piece of the water management puzzle in New Mexico. As discussions continue on the future of water resources and climate adaptation, Green Canyon Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable infrastructure and proactive maintenance to safeguard our communities and environment.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
89 |
River Or Stream |
RIO GRANDE - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
69 |
Drainage Area |
31 |
Nid Storage |
6400 |
Structural Height |
104 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
104 |
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.
Green Canyon Dam
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