Black Arroyo Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Black Arroyo Detention Dam is a vital structure designed to mitigate flood risks along the Black Arroyo.
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Summary
Constructed in 1992 by Bohannon Huston, Inc., this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 3,273 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 486 acre-feet and a high hazard potential designation, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Office of the State Engineer, the Black Arroyo Detention Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Despite being assessed as in fair condition as of November 2019, the dam still poses a moderate risk based on a risk assessment rating of 3. With a spillway width of 223 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 21,428 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle significant water flow during times of increased rainfall or runoff.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Black Arroyo Detention Dam serves as a prime example of infrastructure aimed at flood risk reduction. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, structures like these are essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the devastating effects of flooding. By staying informed about the condition and maintenance of such dams, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and sustainability of our water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
3273 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK ARROYO |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22.6 |
Drainage Area |
9.9 |
Nid Storage |
486 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Black Arroyo Detention Dam