Springer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Located in Colfax, New Mexico, the Springer Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
Completed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 4190 feet, with a storage capacity of 8200 acre-feet. It is situated on the Cimarron River, providing water resources for agricultural activities in the region.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 39 feet, and it has a maximum discharge capacity of 10,660 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the Springer Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk, with no specific risk management measures mentioned in the data.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and infrastructure of dams will find the Springer Lake Dam an intriguing subject. With its historical significance, functional purpose, and current condition, this dam presents a case study for the intersection of water resource management, irrigation practices, and dam safety in the arid landscapes of New Mexico.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
4190 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
CIMARRON RIVER - OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
453 |
Drainage Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
8200 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Springer Lake Dam