Ladera Dam No. 14 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Ladera Dam No.


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Summary

14, located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, serves as a critical flood risk reduction structure along the Ladera Arroyo. Built in 1976 by LEVERTON/DENNEY & MCCORNACK/BURNS, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 2,113 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 134.4 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its importance, the dam is currently rated as having a poor condition assessment, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2018 highlighted the need for significant repairs and maintenance to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness and safety. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a pressing need for proactive risk management measures to be implemented to address the dam's vulnerabilities and safeguard the community in the event of an emergency.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition of Ladera Dam No. 14 and advocate for the necessary investments and improvements to enhance its resilience. By prioritizing the upkeep and modernization of critical infrastructure like this dam, we can better mitigate flood risks, protect water resources, and adapt to the changing climate challenges facing our communities.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

2113

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

LADERA ARROYO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

17

Nid Storage

134.4

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.