Swinburne Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Swinburne Dam, also known as Calabacillas Dam, is a crucial structure located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, designed by Wilson & Company, Inc.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1991, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a length of 2300 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Calabacillas Arroyo, providing essential protection to the surrounding area against potential flooding events.
With a maximum storage capacity of 1630 acre-feet and a surface area of 57 acres, Swinburne Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's spillway, with a width of 720 feet, ensures effective water discharge during peak flow periods, with a maximum discharge capacity of 50700 cubic feet per second. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
In the case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan is regularly updated to meet guidelines, and risk management measures are in place to mitigate potential risks. Swinburne Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience, highlighting the importance of proper infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1991 |
Dam Length |
2300 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
CALABACILLAS ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57 |
Drainage Area |
74 |
Nid Storage |
1630 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
43 |
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.
Swinburne Dam