Tortugas Site 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Tortugas Site 1 Dam is a vital structure located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, designed by USDA NRCS to manage flood risk along the Tortugas Arroyo.
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Summary
Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a height of 48.2 feet and has a hydraulic height of 50 feet, with a structural height of 53 feet. The dam spans 3485 feet in length and has a spillway width of 500 feet, serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively.
Despite its importance, the dam's condition assessment in 2019 revealed poor conditions, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in December 2019 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure safety and functionality. With a moderate risk rating of 3, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to address potential safety concerns and ensure the dam's resilience in the face of climate challenges. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it's crucial to monitor and advocate for the maintenance and enhancement of critical infrastructure like Tortugas Site 1 Dam to safeguard communities and ecosystems downstream.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
3485 |
Dam Height |
48.2 |
River Or Stream |
TORTUGAS ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
91 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
21 |
Nid Storage |
1980 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Tortugas Site 1 Dam