Asaayi Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Asaayi, also known as Bowl Lake, is a Federal-owned reservoir located in McKinley, New Mexico, with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, this Earth-type dam was completed in 1964 and has a structural height of 66 feet and a length of 610 feet. With a storage capacity of 1060 acre-feet, Asaayi plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation and recreation in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Asaayi has not undergone a recent condition assessment, posing a potential risk to the surrounding area. With a very high risk assessment ranking, the reservoir is in need of updated emergency action plans and risk management measures to ensure the safety of residents and structures downstream. The last inspection date was in 2012, highlighting the need for increased monitoring and maintenance to address any potential safety concerns.

Located in the Bowl Canyon Creek watershed and surrounded by the natural beauty of New Mexico, Asaayi serves as a vital water resource for the community of Ft. Defiance. As climate change continues to impact water availability in the region, it is imperative that proper management and maintenance practices are implemented to safeguard the integrity of this essential water source for future generations.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

610

River Or Stream

BOWL CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1060

Structural Height

66

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

66
       
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.