Cottonwood-Walnut Site #6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Cottonwood-Walnut Site #6 is a local government-owned flood risk reduction structure located in Cottonwood, New Mexico.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1986 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet and spans a length of 8607 feet along Cottonwood Creek. With a maximum discharge capacity of 95600 cubic feet per second, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Classified as having a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cottonwood-Walnut Site #6 is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the region and is a key component of the local water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cottonwood-Walnut Site #6 serves as an important example of how local governments work in partnership with federal agencies to protect communities from the impacts of flooding. By understanding the design and operational characteristics of this dam, enthusiasts can gain insights into the complex network of water management systems that help mitigate risks and safeguard water resources in regions prone to flooding.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
8607 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
49 |
Nid Storage |
13402 |
Structural Height |
61 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
61 |
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.
Cottonwood-Walnut Site #6