Ladera Dam No. 12 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ladera Dam No. 10 Ladera Dam No. 14
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Ladera Dam No.
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Summary
12, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along the Ladera Arroyo. Built in 1976 by LEVERTON/DENNEY & MCCORNACK/BURNS, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a structural height of 26 feet and a length of 1816 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 99.65 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 52,568 cubic feet per second, making it a significant structure in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area.
Despite its importance, Ladera Dam No. 12 is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in November 2018 revealed the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Office of the State Engineer, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to address any issues that may arise. With its location in a high-risk area and the potential consequences of failure, efforts to enhance the dam's condition and reduce risks are essential to safeguard the surrounding community and water resources.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role of structures like Ladera Dam No. 12 is essential in managing flood risks and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. The dam's moderate risk assessment and the ongoing efforts to address its condition highlight the importance of proactive maintenance and management practices in safeguarding infrastructure and communities in the face of changing weather patterns and increasing water-related challenges. By staying informed and engaged in the monitoring and improvement of dams like Ladera Dam No. 12, enthusiasts can contribute to enhancing water resource management and resilience in the face of climate change impacts.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1816 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
LADERA ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
99.65 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Ladera Dam No. 12