Westgate Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Westgate Detention Dam in Albuquerque, New Mexico, stands as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the Amole Arroyo.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, the earth dam rises 48 feet high and stretches 2,095 feet in length, with a capacity of 920 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, at 400 feet wide, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 46,360 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition, with inspections conducted every five years.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, Westgate Detention Dam serves as a vital safeguard for the Bernalillo County community. Situated in a moderate risk area, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2014 and meets established guidelines. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, its satisfactory condition and adequate risk management measures ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from flooding events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Westgate Detention Dam stands as a testament to successful flood mitigation efforts in New Mexico.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
2095 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
AMOLE ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
50 |
Drainage Area |
18.3 |
Nid Storage |
920 |
Structural Height |
55 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
55 |
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.
Westgate Detention Dam