Eagle Nest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Eagle Nest Dam, located in Colfax County, New Mexico, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1918, this arch dam stands at a height of 140 feet and has a hydraulic height of 133 feet, providing critical water storage for the surrounding area. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 81,000 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 98,400 acre-feet, serving the needs of both irrigation and recreation.

Situated on the Cimarron River, Eagle Nest Dam plays a crucial role in water management and supply for the region. With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve as a vital infrastructure for water resource management, demonstrating the importance of sustainable water practices in the face of climate change.

With its impressive engineering design and historical significance, Eagle Nest Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water resources for the benefit of communities. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the role of structures like Eagle Nest Dam is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1918

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

CIMARRON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

2496

Hydraulic Height

133

Drainage Area

184.5

Nid Storage

98400

Structural Height

142

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

142
       
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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.