Upper Gila Valley Site No. 6 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Gila Valley Site No.
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Summary
6 Dam, also known as the Maldonado Canyon Floodwater Retarding Structure, is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Grant County, New Mexico. Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32.2 feet and has a hydraulic height of 31.7 feet, providing vital protection against debris and flood risks along the Maldonado Canyon. With a storage capacity of 203 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1825 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, Upper Gila Valley Site No. 6 Dam has faced challenges in terms of its condition assessment, with a current rating of poor and a high hazard potential. Despite these concerns, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, demonstrating its importance in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding communities. The dam's location in an unincorporated community northwest of the structure underscores its critical role in safeguarding the area from potential water-related disasters.
With a history of state inspection, regulation, and enforcement, Upper Gila Valley Site No. 6 Dam remains a key asset in water resource management in New Mexico. As a focal point for flood risk reduction efforts, this dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns. While facing challenges in its condition assessment and maintenance, the dam's strategic significance in protecting the local community underscores the need for continued monitoring and investment in its upkeep to ensure its long-term effectiveness in managing water resources and climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
32.2 |
River Or Stream |
MALDONADO CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
31.7 |
Drainage Area |
2.16 |
Nid Storage |
203 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River Near Gila
|
111cfs |
Mogollon Creek Near Cliff
|
5cfs |
Gila River Near Redrock
|
75cfs |
San Francisco River Near Glenwood
|
26cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
67cfs |
Mimbres River At Mimbres
|
2cfs |
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.
Upper Gila Valley Site No. 6 Dam