Jackson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
Jackson Lake Dam in Farmington, New Mexico, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Built in 1919 by designer W. Carlos Powell, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet and stretches 550 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1,468 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond development and recreational activities.
Despite its age, Jackson Lake Dam has faced challenges with a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 24 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 1,223 cubic feet per second. The dam's drainage area is 0.2 square miles, and its surface area covers 72.9 acres. The last inspection in May 2017 revealed the need for improvement in its maintenance and emergency action plan preparedness.
Located on the La Plata River in San Juan County, this vital water resource plays a crucial role in the region's irrigation system. With its historical significance and impact on surrounding ecosystems, Jackson Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water scarcity concerns.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
LA PLATA RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
72.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
1468 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
Jackson Lake Dam