Sebastian Martin Site 4 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Sebastian Martin Site 4 Dam, also known as Arroyo De Borregos Retard Dam, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Rio Arriba, New Mexico.


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Summary

Constructed in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 67.6 feet and spans 670 feet in length, designed to regulate the flow of the Arroyo De Borregos stream. With a storage capacity of 692 acre-feet, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the unincorporated residents of the area from potential flooding events.

Despite its significant contribution to flood risk reduction, Sebastian Martin Site 4 Dam currently faces challenges with its condition assessment rated as poor and a high hazard potential. The last inspection conducted in March 2017 revealed the need for maintenance and repairs to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment have not been updated recently, highlighting the importance of timely monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the critical role of Sebastian Martin Site 4 Dam in safeguarding the local community from flooding events. Collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the Office of the State Engineer are necessary to address the dam's maintenance needs and enhance its resilience to future challenges. By prioritizing the safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure, stakeholders can ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region and protect the surrounding environment from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

670

Dam Height

67.6

River Or Stream

ARROYO DE BORREGOS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

1.38

Nid Storage

692

Structural Height

75.6

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

76
       
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.