Bluewater Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Bluewater Dam, located in Cibola, New Mexico, is a vital water resource structure managed by the local government.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1927, this arch dam stands at a height of 75 feet and has a structural height of 99 feet, with a length of 655 feet. It serves primarily for irrigation purposes, but also offers opportunities for recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 44,150 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 38,510 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1,730 acres.

Bluewater Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2020. It is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 195 feet. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and has no associated locks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bluewater Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate infrastructure that supports agriculture and recreation in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a critical component of water management in New Mexico, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in harnessing and preserving this essential resource.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

655

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

BLUEWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

1730

Drainage Area

207

Nid Storage

44150

Structural Height

99

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0, Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

99
       
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.