Cochiti Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Galisteo Dam Cochiti Lake
Last Updated: December 16, 2025
Cochiti Dam, also known as Cochiti Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Sandoval, New Mexico, near COCHITI PUEBLO.
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Summary
Completed in 1975 by CESPA, the dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction along the RIO GRANDE & SANTA FE rivers. Standing at a height of 251 feet and with a storage capacity of 722,000 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding in the region.
Despite its successful flood risk reduction efforts, the Cochiti Dam project still poses a high hazard potential, as larger releases during emergency operations could overwhelm downstream river channels and cause catastrophic flooding to surrounding communities. A risk assessment conducted in 2009 deemed the likelihood of a dam breach as low, but highlighted the potential for life-threatening inundation and damage to infrastructure if such an event were to occur. The US Army Corps of Engineers, who own and manage the dam, implement various risk management measures including regular inspections, maintenance activities, and risk communication to safeguard against potential risks.
In conclusion, Cochiti Dam stands as a critical infrastructure for flood control in the region, but remains a potential source of danger in extreme circumstances. The ongoing efforts by the US Army Corps of Engineers to monitor and maintain the dam demonstrate their commitment to managing the associated risks and ensuring the safety of downstream communities along the Rio Grande to Elephant Butte Lake. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Cochiti Dam serves as a fascinating example of the complex interplay between infrastructure, natural forces, and the importance of proactive risk management in safeguarding against potential disasters.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
28300 |
Dam Height |
251 |
River Or Stream |
RIO GRANDE & SANTA FE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1200 |
Hydraulic Height |
246 |
Drainage Area |
14635 |
Nid Storage |
722000 |
Structural Height |
251 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
251 |
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.
Cochiti Dam
Cochiti Lake