Bear Canyon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Bear Canyon Dam, located in Grant County, New Mexico, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 79 feet, with a hydraulic height of 93.4 feet and a structural height of 99 feet. The dam has a capacity for 1483 acre-feet of water storage, with a normal storage level of 685 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres.

The dam spans a length of 270 feet and is situated on Bear Canyon Creek, serving the communities of Mimbres and San Lorenzo. Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam continues to be inspected annually by the Office of the State Engineer to ensure its safety and integrity. With its uncontrolled spillway and slide gates for outlet control, Bear Canyon Dam plays a vital role in providing irrigation water for agricultural purposes in the region.

While the dam also supports recreational activities, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. Efforts to mitigate potential hazards and manage risks are ongoing, with measures in place to safeguard the dam and surrounding areas. As a key infrastructure for water resource management in the area, Bear Canyon Dam remains a significant component of the local ecosystem and economy, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource practices and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

79

River Or Stream

BEAR CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

93.4

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

1483

Structural Height

99

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

99
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.