Alameda Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 23, 2025

Alameda Dam, located in Doña Ana, New Mexico, is a Federal-owned structure designed by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Alameda Arroyo.


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Summary

The dam, classified as a Gravity type structure with a stone core, stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 38 feet, spanning a length of 750 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 650 acre-feet and a surface area of 104 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting surrounding areas from potential flooding.

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, Alameda Dam has a low hazard potential but is currently rated as unsatisfactory in condition assessment, prompting regular inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its construction, and its uncontrolled spillway with a width of 4 feet allows for the release of excess water when needed. With Xochitl Torres Small (D) as the Congressional Representative for the area, the dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and protecting the community of Sonoma Ranch.

The significance of Alameda Dam extends beyond flood control, as it also plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a drainage area of 8.34 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,586 cubic feet per second, the dam helps regulate water flow and prevent potential downstream flooding. Although its current condition may be deemed unsatisfactory, ongoing inspections and maintenance efforts ensure that the dam continues to fulfill its vital role in safeguarding the surrounding areas from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability.

Dam Length

750

River Or Stream

ALAMEDA ARROYO

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

104

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

8.34

Nid Storage

650

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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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.