Apodaca Arroyo Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Located in La Mesa, New Mexico, the Apodaca Arroyo Dam, also known as the Apodaca Arroyo Flood Retarding Structure, was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1962.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a structural height of 40 feet, with a length of 1549 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 193 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2340 cubic feet per second.
The dam is situated on the Apodaca Arroyo river, and it is state-regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico. Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and uncontrolled outlet gates. The last inspection was conducted in May 2016, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Apodaca Arroyo Dam presents an intriguing case study in flood risk mitigation and dam management. With its unique design and regulatory oversight, this structure serves as a critical component in the region's water resource management infrastructure. As efforts continue to assess and address its condition and risk factors, the dam remains a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and public safety in the arid landscape of New Mexico.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1549 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
APODACA ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
2.7 |
Nid Storage |
193 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Apodaca Arroyo Dam