Upper Gila Valley Site No. 7 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Gila Valley Site No.


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Summary

7 Dam, also known as the Woodrow Floodwater Retarding Structure, is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure located in the Woodrow Canyon in Grant, New Mexico. This Earth-type dam, with a height of 33 feet and a structural height of 38 feet, was completed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS. The dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction and debris control along the Woodrow Canyon, protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Despite its importance in mitigating flood risks, Upper Gila Valley Site No. 7 Dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed the need for improvements to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and a spillway width of 60 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 1100 cubic feet per second in case of overflow. With its location in an unincorporated community south of the dam, the dam plays a critical role in safeguarding the area from flooding and ensuring the safety of its residents.

As a state-regulated structure under the jurisdiction of the Office of the State Engineer, Upper Gila Valley Site No. 7 Dam is subject to regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its functionality and safety standards. With its moderate risk level and the need for rehabilitation measures, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in managing water resources and climate impacts in the region. Continued monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to ensure the long-term resilience of this vital flood control infrastructure in the Upper Gila Valley.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

WOODROW CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

94

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.