Rhodes Arroyo Retarding Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Rhodes Arroyo Retarding Dam, also known as Rhodes Arroyo Dam, is a private structure located in Radium Springs, New Mexico, along the Rhodes Arroyo stream.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 44.5 feet and spans a length of 440 feet, with a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet for flood risk reduction. The dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and undergoes state inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
With a significant hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of April 2016, the Rhodes Arroyo Retarding Dam requires attention to ensure its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is associated with no other structures, situated within a drainage area of 2 square miles. Its risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the need for risk management measures to be implemented to address potential vulnerabilities and ensure the safety of the surrounding area.
As a notable feature in the water resource management landscape of Doña Ana County, New Mexico, the Rhodes Arroyo Retarding Dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Rhodes Arroyo stream. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and operational aspects of this dam, which serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the local community from the impacts of flooding events. Continuous monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to uphold the dam's functionality and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
44.5 |
River Or Stream |
RHODES ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
194 |
Structural Height |
49.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Leasburg Dam State Park
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Indian Springs Hill
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Scenic Valley
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Rhodes Arroyo Retarding Dam