Rc&D Project Measure 83 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rc&D Project Measure 83 Dam, also known as the Las Cruces Arroyo Dam, is a crucial structure located in Taos, New Mexico, designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the Las Cruces Arroyo.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a structural height of 51 feet, with a storage capacity of 337 acre-feet. Despite its importance in flood risk reduction, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, the Rc&D Project Measure 83 Dam faces maintenance challenges due to its deteriorating condition. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is crucial for authorities to address the poor condition of the dam to ensure its effectiveness in flood control. As an enthusiast in water resources and climate, staying informed about the maintenance and management of this critical infrastructure is essential to safeguarding the surrounding community from potential risks and disasters.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

2590

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

LAS CRUCES ARROYO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

337

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

51
       
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.