Upper Gila Valley Site No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Gila Valley Site No.
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Summary
3 Dam, also known as the Dominguez Floodwater Retarding Structure, is a crucial flood risk reduction infrastructure located in an unincorporated community west of the dam in Grant, New Mexico. Built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 26.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26.7 feet, serving as a barrier on the Dominguez Canyon river/stream. With a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.33 square miles, the dam plays a critical role in controlling debris and reducing flood risks in the region.
Despite its importance, the Upper Gila Valley Site No. 3 Dam has a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 30 feet, and its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unclear. With Xochitl Torres Small (D) representing the area in Congress, there is a need for increased attention and potential upgrades to ensure the dam's continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding community.
In conclusion, the Upper Gila Valley Site No. 3 Dam stands as a critical flood risk reduction structure in New Mexico, with a history dating back to 1962. As climate change continues to impact water resources in the region, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and improvement of this dam to safeguard against potential disasters and ensure the safety of the local community. With proper oversight and investment, this essential infrastructure can continue to serve its purpose effectively for years to come.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
26.8 |
River Or Stream |
DOMINGUEZ CANYON |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
26.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
28.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Gila River Near Gila
|
111cfs |
Mogollon Creek Near Cliff
|
5cfs |
Gila River Near Redrock
|
75cfs |
San Francisco River Near Glenwood
|
26cfs |
Gila River Below Blue Creek
|
67cfs |
Mimbres River At Mimbres
|
2cfs |
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.
Upper Gila Valley Site No. 3 Dam