Santa Cruz Site 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Santa Cruz Site 3 Dam, also known as Ramones Retard Dam, is a vital structure located in Chimayo, New Mexico, along the Canada de los Ramones stream.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 54 feet, with a structural height of 37 feet and a length of 2010 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation and damage during extreme weather events.

This dam has a storage capacity of 470 acre-feet and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment of fair, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 191 cubic feet per second.

Santa Cruz Site 3 Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. As a key piece of infrastructure designed to protect the local community, it highlights the importance of effective water management strategies in the face of changing climate conditions. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, this dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies to safeguard water resources for the future.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

2010

Dam Height

54

River Or Stream

CANADA DE LOS RAMONES

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

470

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

54
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.