Aps Ash Pond Tailings Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Aps Ash Pond Tailings Dam No.
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Summary
3, located in Shiprock, New Mexico, was completed in 1976 and is owned by a public utility. This earth dam stands at a height of 95 feet and spans a length of 6600 feet, with a storage capacity of 839 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for tailings storage and is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Aps Ash Pond Tailings Dam No. 3 is identified as having a high risk level. The dam has undergone inspections every five years, with the latest assessment conducted in November 2019. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with emergency action plans in case of unforeseen events. With a drainage area of 0.54 square miles and situated along the Chaco Wash - TR river or stream, the dam serves as a critical structure for water resource management in the region.
Overall, Aps Ash Pond Tailings Dam No. 3 plays a crucial role in the storage and management of tailings in San Juan County, New Mexico. As a vital piece of infrastructure for the public utility sector, the dam's design by DAMES & MOORE underscores the importance of sustainable water resource practices. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find interest in the dam's structural details, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment, highlighting the intersection of water management and environmental stewardship in the region.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
6600 |
Dam Height |
95 |
River Or Stream |
CHACO WASH - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
138 |
Drainage Area |
0.54 |
Nid Storage |
839 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
95 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Juan River At Shiprock
|
639cfs |
La Plata River Near Farmington
|
4cfs |
San Juan River At Farmington
|
541cfs |
Animas River At Farmington
|
282cfs |
La Plata River At La Plata
|
3cfs |
Mancos River Near Towaoc
|
8cfs |
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.
Aps Ash Pond Tailings Dam No. 3