Morgan Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Morgan Dam, also known as Morgan Lake Dam, is a public utility structure located in Shiprock, New Mexico.
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Summary
Completed in 1961, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 165 feet and has a hydraulic height of 128 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 42,800 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 6,760 feet and is primarily designed for purposes other than flood control or water supply.
With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2019, Morgan Dam is closely regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. The dam's spillway, with an uncontrolled design and a width of 50 feet, can accommodate a maximum discharge of 650 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment for Morgan Dam is moderate, emergency action plans and inundation maps are yet to be prepared, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures for this critical water resource infrastructure in the region.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
6760 |
Dam Height |
133 |
River Or Stream |
Chaco Wash - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1260 |
Hydraulic Height |
128 |
Drainage Area |
4 |
Nid Storage |
42800 |
Structural Height |
165 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
165 |
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.
Morgan Dam