Sebastian Martin Site 5 Dam, also known as Arroyo De Los Lopez Retard Dam, is a crucial water management structure located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 84 feet and stretches for 615 feet, with a storage capacity of 460 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction along the Arroyo De Lopez stream, providing protection to the surrounding areas in Espanola.
Despite its importance in mitigating flood risks, Sebastian Martin Site 5 Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures. The dam's spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is uncontrolled, posing challenges in managing water discharge during heavy rainfall events. With its location in a high-risk area, the dam requires regular inspections and monitoring to ensure public safety and effective flood control.
With the state of New Mexico regulating and inspecting the dam, efforts are underway to address the dam's condition and implement necessary risk management measures. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the resilience and effectiveness of structures like the Sebastian Martin Site 5 Dam are vital in protecting communities and managing water resources in a sustainable manner.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
615 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
ARROYO DE LOPEZ |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24 |
Hydraulic Height |
68 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
460 |
Structural Height |
84 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
84 |
Rio Chama Near Chamita
|
1280cfs |
Rio Grande At Embudo
|
617cfs |
Embudo Creek At Dixon
|
41cfs |
Santa Cruz River Near Cundiyo
|
32cfs |
Rio Grande At Otowi Bridge
|
1960cfs |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
16cfs |