Summary
1, is a local government-owned structure located in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Built in 1943 by Carlos Powell and URS Corporation, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 49.4 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to serve as a water supply source, with a normal storage volume of 25.4 acre-feet.
Situated on the Los Alamos Canyon river, this dam not only provides water for the surrounding area but also offers recreational opportunities. The dam has a spillway width of 90 feet and a high hazard potential rating due to its structural characteristics. Despite being last inspected in 2017 and deemed to be in satisfactory condition, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with a frequency of one inspection per year to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is clear that Los Alamos Canyon Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
215 |
Dam Height |
49.4 |
River Or Stream |
LOS ALAMOS CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
49.6 |
Drainage Area |
6.43 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
47.3 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Ponderosa Reservation Group Campground
|
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Santa Clara Canyon Campground
|
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Juniper - Bandelier National Monument
|
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Las Conchas
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Los Alamos Canyon Dam