Summary
2 is a historic irrigation structure located in Colfax, New Mexico, specifically in the city of T.O. Ranch. Built in 1914, this earth dam stands at a height of 67 feet and spans 1,050 feet in length. It serves the primary purpose of irrigation and is situated on Una De Gato Creek, with a drainage area of 48.2 square miles.
Managed by a private entity, Throttle Dam No. 2 is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico and undergoes regular inspections. Despite its age, the dam has a storage capacity of 5,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2,850 acre-feet. However, its condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential due to its age and maintenance issues.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the historical significance and engineering details of Throttle Dam No. 2. Its location on Una De Gato Creek, along with its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, raise concerns about the potential risks associated with this aging irrigation structure. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a need for maintenance and risk management measures, the future of Throttle Dam No. 2 poses interesting challenges in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
67 |
River Or Stream |
UNA DE GATO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
48.2 |
Nid Storage |
5000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
67 |
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.
Throttle Dam No. 2