Chuska Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whiskey Lake Long Lake
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Chuska Lake, located in McKinley County, New Mexico, is a reservoir with a storage capacity of 518 acre-feet and a dam height of 31 feet.
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Summary
Managed by the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Affairs, this lake serves multiple purposes that benefit the local community. Although the primary purpose of the dam is not specified, it is an essential water resource for the region.
Despite the lack of specific details on the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential, Chuska Lake is a significant water source in the area. With a risk assessment yet to be conducted and emergency action plan details pending, the reservoir remains an integral part of the local ecosystem. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Chuska Lake a captivating subject for further exploration and study.
As a part of the Albuquerque District, Chuska Lake's exact role in water management and conservation efforts in the region is not fully defined. However, its presence as a water storage facility highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources and climate change will find Chuska Lake a compelling case study for understanding the challenges and opportunities in maintaining water security in arid regions like New Mexico.
Dam Height |
31 |
Nid Storage |
518 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Chuska Lake