Mcclernon Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Fork Dam North Fork Dam
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Mcclernon Dam, located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the South Fork Arroyo.
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Summary
Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, ensuring that it meets all necessary state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 414 feet, Mcclernon Dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a low hazard potential.
Despite its important function, Mcclernon Dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed during the last inspection in December 2011. With a moderate risk level assigned, there is a need for improved risk management measures to address potential issues. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and inundation map preparedness are unclear, highlighting the importance of maintaining up-to-date emergency protocols in case of any unforeseen events. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, keeping an eye on the condition and maintenance of Mcclernon Dam is essential for ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding community and environment.
Dam Length |
414 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.29 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Aguirre Springs
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Aguirre Spring Campground
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Aguirre Spring Hostsite
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Mcclernon Dam