Maxwell Dam No. 11 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Maxwell Dam No. 12 Maxwell Dam No. 13
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Located in Maxwell, New Mexico, Maxwell Dam No.
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Summary
11 is a private irrigation structure designed by the Bureau of Reclamation and completed in 1914. This earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and a length of 3890 feet, with a storage capacity of 637 acre-feet. Serving the primary purpose of irrigation, the dam regulates the Vermejo River and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet.
Managed by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico, Maxwell Dam No. 11 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures. Despite its poor condition assessment in 2016, the dam poses a low hazard potential with a moderate risk level. Although it has not been modified in recent years, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in Colfax County, New Mexico.
As a key component of the irrigation infrastructure in the region, Maxwell Dam No. 11 supports agricultural activities and contributes to the water supply for the surrounding area. With a focus on water conservation and sustainable usage, the dam represents a vital resource for the local community and underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure to ensure its long-term functionality and safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
3890 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
VERMEJO RIVER - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
126 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
637 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Maxwell Dam No. 11