Santa Cruz Site 4 Dam, also known as Martinez Retard Dam, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico.
Wind
Humidity
Constructed in 1961 by SERGENT, HAUSKINS AND BECKWITH and USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet and spans a length of 4300 feet along the Martinez Arroyo. Owned by the local government, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Office of the State Engineer, ensuring its safety and functionality.
With a storage capacity of 322 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 4872 cubic feet per second, Santa Cruz Site 4 Dam serves as a vital protective barrier against flooding in the region. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, 50 feet wide, helps manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its operational integrity. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is designed to meet established guidelines, providing a structured response framework for any potential risks associated with the structure. With its strategic location and effective design, Santa Cruz Site 4 Dam plays a critical role in safeguarding the surrounding areas from flood-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
4300 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
MARTINEZ ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
63 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
322 |
Structural Height |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
65 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Northlake Campground
|
||
North Lake - Santa Cruz Lake
|
||
Santa Cruz Lake Overlook Campground
|
||
Overlook - Santa Cruz Lake
|
||
Gorham Scout Ranch
|
||
Borrego Mesa
|