Dwight Baker Dam, located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico, is a private dam primarily used for irrigation purposes along the Blanco Arroyo.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's poor condition assessment in 2014 raises concerns about its safety and long-term viability.
Managed by the Office of the State Engineer, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a moderate risk assessment rating, there is a need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities and the surrounding environment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet, and a maximum discharge capacity of 1160 cubic feet per second.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and maintenance of Dwight Baker Dam is crucial to prevent any potential risks or failures. The dam's historic significance in supporting irrigation activities underscores the importance of preserving and ensuring its structural integrity for sustainable water management in the region. Ongoing assessments and updates to the dam's emergency action plan are essential to mitigate risks and protect the local community from any unforeseen emergencies related to the dam's operation.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
BLANCO ARROYO -TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Drainage Area |
10 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Rio Chama Above Abiquiu Reservoir
|
677cfs |
Rio Chama Below El Vado Dam
|
707cfs |
Rio Chama Near La Puente
|
58cfs |
Rio Chama Below Abiquiu Dam
|
1200cfs |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
12cfs |
Rio Chama Near Chamita
|
1110cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Echo Amphitheater
|
||
Echo Campground
|
||
Canjilon Creek
|
||
Canjilon Lakes
|
||
Rio Chama Campground
|
||
Rio Chama Campground, Small Group Sites
|